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COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. 



t 

MEMOIR 



OJf 






GEN. DAYID BLACKSHEAR, 



i?b 



INCLUDINQ 



LETTERS FROM GOVERNORS IRWIN, JACKSON, 
MITCHELL, EARLY, AND RABUN, 



AND FGOJ1 



MAJOR-GENERAL M c INT0SH, BRIGADIER-GENERAL FLOYD, 

AND OTHER OFFICERS OF THE ARMY IN THE WAR OF 1813-14 ON THE 
FRONTIER AND SEA-COAST OF GEORGIA; 

AND ALSO 

LETTERS FROM MEMBERS OF CONGRESS, DR. MOSES 
WADDEL, AND OTHERS: 

TOGETHER WITH 

% IRuster Soil of ©l'axjjis under his Command. 



By STEPHEN F. MILLER. 




PniLADELPniA: 
J. B. LIPPINCOTT & CO. 

1858. 






Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1858, by 

J. 15. LIPPINCOTT k CO. 

in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for the Eastern District of 

Pennsylvania. 



INTRODUCTION. 



This memoir of Gen. Blackshear was included in " The Bench and 
Bar of Georgia," of which it formed the Appendix to the first volume, 
at the close of the memoir of Governor Early. This connection was 
deemed necessary to bring in the official correspondence between them, 
throwing light on the military campaigns and measures adopted for the 
defence of the State more than forty years ago. Other communications 
have been added, which, it is believed, will interest readers generally. 

Gen. Blackshear wielded great influence in his day, and was dis- 
tinguished for practical wisdom both in public and private life. Besides 
the interest growing out of the memoir itself, an opportunity is given to 
the officers and soldiers of his command who may be living, and to the 
families of such as are dead, to see the names of those who served in the 
war of 1812-15 on the frontier and sea-coast of Georgia. The military 
rolls attached in this separate form do not appear in any other publication. 
The paging of the memoir is that of the volume from which it has been 
taken, while the paging of the rolls shows the quantity of matter in this 
binding. It was not considered necessary to disturb the original order, as 
the index herewith is adapted to it, and will guide the attention of the 
reader. 

The object of publishing this memoir with the Army Rolls attached is 
to render the information it contains accessible to those who mi°;ht not be 
willing to purchase the larger work on the Bench and Bar. It is a lauda- 
ble desire to know the service our countrymen were called to perform 
against the enemy, that we may award credit where it is justly due, and 
profit by their experience as occasion may require. The troops under the 
command of Gen. Blackshear were employed at various points on the 
frontier, mostly at the stations following : Fort Adams, Chauncey, Daniel, 
Defiance, Early, Floyd, Harrison, High-Shoals, Jackson, Laurens, Madi- 
son, Mcintosh, Mitchell, Navahope, Newnan, Perry, Pinckney, Seven 
Stands, Smith, Telfair, Twiggs, and Washington. The march of the 
army to the seaboard is fully shown in the despatches. 

To render the force still more effective, a number of men not otherwise 
with the army, such as were acquainted with the country and the habits 
of the Indians, were employed to act as spies and to report their discove- 
ries within a sphere designated. This special service required active and 

3 



4 INTRODUCTION. 

hardy men who could approach the camp of the Indians unobserved or 
otherwise ascertain their plans. The names of these spies, about fifty in 
all, appear in the rolls in connection with the several forts to which they 
were assigned. * 

As a record of honor which cannot be referred to without grateful 
sensibility, a list of the killed and wounded in the severely-contested battle 
with the Indians at Cau-lib-bee, in 1814, is also given, as certified by the 
hospital-surgeon. The following companies suffered in the action: — Cap- 
tain Adam's, Barton's, Broadnax's, Browning's, Butler's, Butts's, Cleave- 
land's, J. Cunningham's, J. T. Cunningham's, Ford's, Hamilton's, Hay's, 
Heath's, King's, Lees, Little's, Meriwether's, Myrick's, Owen's, Park's, 
Sandridge's, Smith's, Thomas's, Ware's, Weathersby's, and Yawn's. 

The other papers attached to the memoir are arranged in chronological 
order, from No. 1 to No. 140 inclusive. A synopsis of those which 
relate to the war may be seen, beginning at page 365. An abstract of 
the other papers will be found at page 391. The whole collection is 
worthy of perusal, as illustrative of the times and characters to which 
they apply. 

Though not strictly within the scope of his present duties, the author 
respectfully suggests to families and persons having the custody of old 
documents and writings, the obligation on their part to preserve them 
from waste, as they are of value to the cause of truth and for the objects 
of history. The letters from Hon. James Jones, a representative in Con- 
gress, to Gen. Blackshear, in 1800, respecting the Western Territory, 
then belonging to Georgia, and the difficulties which delayed the Compact 
of 1S02, furnish a striking example. Other letters might be specified of 
the same interesting class. 

In reviewing the correspondence appended to this memoir, the author 
deems it a mere act of justice to observe that the letters of Gen. Black- 
shear to the commander-in-chief, to the major-general, and other officers 
in the army, were mostly written amid the noise and hurry of the camp, 
without the conveniences suitable for such a labor. Notwithstanding this 
fact, the} r are marked by great method in details,, vigor of thought, and 
harmony of expression, which reflect honor on his memory. A cultivator 
of the soil, always exerting himself to improve the various branches of 
agricultural production by his orchards, his varieties of sugarcane, and 
his large vineyards, after the most enlightened experiments, aside from 
the regular business of his farm, Gen. Blackshear was justly placed by all 
who knew him among the most useful men of his period. This publi- 
cation, it is hoped, will be valued for the particulars of an example so 
worthy, if for no other sufficient reason. S. F. M. 

Oglethorpe, Geo., January, 1858. 



APPENDIX. 



MEMOIR OF GEN. DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 

The ancestors of David Blackshear were Germans. John 
Martin Francks,* James Blackshear, Philip Miller, and other 
immigrants came to America about the year 1732, and landed at 
New Berne, the colony-town established in North Carolina by the 
Baron De Graffenreid. They procured boats and ascended the 
river Trent some twenty miles, where they put ashore their goods 
and families. The country was unoccupied : the wilderness was 
not broken or a tree scarred by the axe when this little band of 
Europeans, with lusty sinews, brave hearts, and toiling hands, cast 
their destiny in the New World. They had no horses, no cattle, 
and, of course, no conveyance, nor could they obtain any, to trans- 
port their household stock which they brought with them from 
Germany, — bedding, clothing, provisions, and cooking-implements, 
and such other articles as they had provided for their forest home. 
They had no alternative but to pack as much upon each person as 
his or her strength would carry ; for the families were noble speci- 
mens of mankind, full of health and of great physical endurance. 

Thus equipped for the journey, they took up the line of march, 
and halted at what was afterward called New Germany, seven 



* The author has had in his possession many years, among old family papers, 
the original passport, of which the following is a copy : — 

North 

Carolina, ss. PERMIT the bearers hereof, William Franck and Theobold 

Christler, freemen, to pass through this Colony unmolested, 
in their way to Pensilvania, they beheaving themselves as 
becometh. 

GIVEN under my hand, this 10th Day of Sept. 1733. 

Martin Franck, 
Jacob Gist. 
To all whom it ' 
may Concern. 

355 



:'} 



356 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

miles above the present village of Trenton, in then Craven, now Jones 
county. While on the way, laden with household goods, one of 
the females was assaulted by a half-grown bull, who, not liking 
the bundles or dinner-pots which she carried on her head, rushed 
at them with considerable fury. The matron, or damsel, whichever 
it was, seized her adversary by the horns and instantly twisted him 
over on his back, quietly remarking, "See that ugly calf!" There 
was no renewal of the attack.* The settlers at once went to work, 
entered land under the Colonial Government, and soon began to 
prosper and multiply. 

Mr. Francks and his wife Civil had two daughters, named Catharine 
and Barbara. The former married Mr. Bush, one of the settlers, 
by whom she had two sons, John and William, and one daughter, 
Mary, who was born January 3, 1757. About this time Mr. Bush 
died, and his widow in a reasonable time intermarried with James 
Blackshear, and became the mother of eight other children, of 
whom David Blackshear, the subject of this memoir, was the 
third. He was born on Chinquapin Creek, near Trent River, 
about seven miles above Trenton, on the 31st day of January, 
1764. 

Schools in those days were scarce. Occasionally a man could 
be engaged for three months — seldom for a longer time — in the 
same neighborhood. As a class, teachers were then a roving set, 
perhaps owing to the rough accommodations they received grating 
to their cultivated taste, (for they possessed a monopoly of learn- 
ing,) or, what was probably the case, they had no confidence in the 
good opinions of their patrons after a certain scholastic habit had 
manifested itself, requiring new fields for sobriety. To a school 
of this description David Blackshear was sent, and had completed 
his quarter before the Revolutionary AVar broke out. Then a 
mere boy, about twelve years of age, he followed his two elder 
brothers in an expedition to Wilmington, and was present at the 
battle of Moore's Creek, February 27, 1776, at which Gen. Cas- 
well commanded, to the entire defeat of the Tories. He was also 
with the Whigs in the skirmish at Buford's Bridge. Returning 
home, he again went to school three months, which was his last. 
He was instructed by Mr. Joseph Dews, either half or the whole of 
six months, his entire educational course. A noted Scotchman, named 
James Alexander Campbell Hunter Peter Douglass, kept school 
about the close of the Revolution, to whom many of the neighbors 

* The author heard Gen. Blackshear relate this incident. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 357 

of the Blackshear family sent their children. The author, in his 
boyhood, has heard some of the old pupils laugh and tell that a 
whole Friday-evening class was flogged because they spelt "corn" 
as Mr. Douglass pronounced it, — kor-run I 

While a scouting-party was out, consisting of James, Edward, 
and David Blackshear, Martin Francks, Peter Calloway, and others, 
fifteen or twenty in all, led by Captain Yates, in pursuit of the 
Tories, they stopped at Col. White's to stay all night to relieve 
their fatigue. James Blackshear, Martin Francks, and Mr. Callo- 
way, being stronger than the rest, continued five or six miles far- 
ther, until they reached the house of Mrs. Blackshear. They had 
just entered, and were about sitting down to supper, when the 
dwelling was surrounded by Tories, and James Blackshear, her 
son, and Martin Francks, her nephew, were taken out of the house, 
carried to the end of the lane, tied to a stake, and there shot dead 
by the Tories. A negro man ran with the news to Col. White's. 
The colonel and his party were fourteen in number, and had but 
seven horses between them. They instantly mounted two on a 
horse, and set forth on the work of revenge. In the mean time, 
after killing Blackshear and Francks, the Tories concluded to cap- 
ture and destroy the whole party of Whigs at Col. White's, and 
were near enough to the house to hear the orders given by Capt. 
Yates to his men as they left the gate. The Tories then divided 
into two companies, and lay in ambush on each side of the road to 
fire upon the Whigs. They did fire, killing one Whig and wounding 
several others, and, among them, Brock was shot through the thigh 
and Edward Blackshear through both hands, as he was riding on 
the same horse behind another man, with his hands holding his 
gun on the pommel of the saddle. Capt. Yates had his collar-bone 
broken and his horse killed under him. When the Tories opened 
their fire, the Whigs dashed back to get from between the double 
ambuscade. On coming up to the spot and finding one man dead, 
the Tories, supposing that the Whigs had fled, raised a shout of 
triumph. About this time, Capt. Yates, lying a few yards off, 
severely wounded as he was, raised his gun* and fired upon the 
group, killing one Tory captain and breaking the thigh of another, 
so that he was taken prisoner. They carried the wounded Tory 
captain to the stake and there shot him, within a few hours after 
the other frightful tragedy had occurred on the same spot. Soon 



* The author has seen the old gun (a long one it was) in the possession of the late 
Col. James Shine, of North Carolina, who married Leah, a daughter of Captain Yates. 



358 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

after the fatal discharge (fatal to the Tories) by Captain Yates, the 
Whigs rallied, killed several of the Tories, and crippled a good 
many others. 

Thus closed the bloody proceedings of that night, still fresh in 
the tradition of the neighborhood. The lands adjoining were, in 
the boyhood clays of the author, owned by Levin Lane, Richard 
Koonce, and Christopher Reynolds. Since these good old citizens 
have passed away, the Revolutionary homestead may have gone 
into other families. 

It may be remarked here that the other daughter of John Martin 
Francks, Barbara, married Daniel Shine, who resided on Cypress 
Creek, ten miles above Trenton. She had the honor of enter- 
taining President Washington at her house when he made his 
Southern tour in 1791. She died in 1814, at the age of ninety- 
five years. Afterward, her son, Col. James Shine, had President 
Monroe and his suite, in which was Mr. Calhoun, the Secretary of 
War, at his mansion in 1819, partaking of a splendid hospitality. 
John Bush, the eldest half-brother of Gen. Blackshear, is men- 
tioned in a historical work* as an ensign, and John Bryan, a near 
family relative, as colonel, in the Revolutionary War. Lemuel 
Hatch, a leading name in the county of Jones, is mentioned on the 
same page as lieutenant-colonel. A new career is now to open. 

ACTS AS SURVEYOR. 

After the close of the Revolution, Mr. Blackshear made several 
trips to Georgia, in winter, with his surveying-instruments, and 
was active in running out and platting such lands as might be 
located in virtue of head-rights or other claims then allowed by the 
Government. He possessed a strong mind, which mastered what- 
ever he undertook ; and a little attention to mathematics taught 
him the use of Gunter's Scale, with which, aided by compass and 
protractor, he could measure lands by actual survey and give cor- 
rect plats of his work. He performed much labor of this kind in 
the county of Wilkes during these excursions to Georgia, which he 
found quite profitable, besides making him acquainted with border 
life and the hardships of a new country in which he was soon to 
act so prominent a part. 

REMOVAL TO GEORGIA IN 1790. 
The information for which Mr. Blackshear and all his brothers 
were distinguished was acquired mostly by studying by torchlight 

* Wheeler's History of North Carolina, vol. i. pp. 80, 81. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 359 

after the farm-labors of the clay were ended. Indeed, all the 
family, brothers and sisters, possessed uncommon vigor of mind 
and great practical sense. They all managed their affairs pru- 
dently, and left large estates. Relative to such, the author takes 
it for granted that the following record will interest the reader: — 

1. James Blackshear, born August 30, 1759 ; killed by the 
Tories of the Revolution. 

2. Edward Blackshear, born January 20, 1762 ; removed to 
Georgia, married Emily G. Mitchell, and died in Thomas county 
in 1829. Gen. Thomas E. Blackshear is one of his sons. 

3. David Blackshear, born January 31, 1764. 

4. Elizabeth Blackshear, born September 16, 1765 ; married 
Blake Bryan. Mrs. Mary Wimberly, widow of the late Maj. Gen. 
Ezekiel Wimberly, of Twiggs county, is their daughter. 

5. Susannah Blackshear, born May 27, 1769 ; married Edward 
Bryan, who died on Cypress Creek, Jones county, North Carolina, 
about the year 1813. In a short time she removed to Georgia, at 
the instance of her brothers. She had five sons : — John Bryan 
and Edward Bryan, now residing in Florida ; James Bryan, a citi- 
zen of Twiggs, and the late William Bryan and Joseph Bryan, of 
Early county, Georgia. 

6. Elijah Blackshear, born July 17, 1771 ; never married; died 
in Laurens county in 1821. 

7. Penelope Blackshear, born April 13, 1773 ; married Edward 
Bryan, who died in Twiggs county in 1825. She took the first 
premium of a silver pitcher ever offered in Macon for a bale of the 
best cotton. The late Elijah Bryan, of Florida, Thomas Jefferson 
Bryan, and Blackshear Bryan, of Twiggs, were her sons. Jen- 
nette, wife of Robert Hodges, of Louisiana, is her daughter. She 
had other sons and daughters, most of whom are dead. She died 
in 1839. 

8. Joseph Blackshear, born September 7, 1775 ; married Wini- 
fred, sister of Col. William A. Tennille, late Secretary of State, 
and died in Laurens county, 1830. 

Most of his relatives here introduced resided near him in Geor- 
gia, or within convenient visiting-distance. On his arrival, he 
found the frontier subject to Indian depredations, and he at once 
united with the few settlers on the Oconee to suppress them. He 
pitched his camp on the lands which he afterward owned, and on 
which he resided until his death. They are now in the possession of 
his sons, and include several thousand acres, with fine river-bottoms. 
This circumstance is referred to as showing that he did not waste 



860 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

his time or his means in frequent removals. His skill and suc- 
cess as a planter, wine and sugar grower, will appear elsewhere 
in this memoir. 

APPOINTED A JUSTICE OF THE PEACE. 
The county in which Mr. Blackshear settled on his removal to 
Georgia was then called Washington. Laurens was formed after- 
ward, with which his name is honorably identified. It seems that 
he had not been there many years before a public trust was ten- 
dered him, as will be seen by the following commission : — 

Georgia. — By his Excellency Jared Irwin, Governor and Commander- 
in-Chief in and over the State aforesaid. 

To David Blackshear, Esq., greeting : — 

By virtue of the power and authority in me vested by an act of the 
General Assembly of the State aforesaid, passed the twenty-second day of 
February, one thousand seven hundred and ninety-six, I DO hereby 
commissionate you, the said David Blackshear, a justice of the peace for 
Captain Blackshear's district, in the county of Washington in the said 
State. 

You are therefore hereby authorized and required to do and perform all 
and singular the duties incumbent on you as a justice of the peace for the 
said district according to law and the trust reposed in you. 

Given under my hand and seal, at the State-House in Louis- 
ville, this fourth day of June, Anno Domini one thousand seven 
hundred and ninety-six, and in the twentieth year of American 
independence. Jared Irwin. 

By the Governor : 

Horatio Marbury, 

for 
John Milton, 

Secretary. 



Another commission for the same office, dated 6th May, 1799, 
signed by Gov. Jackson, is before the author. It recites that the 
nomination was by the justices of the inferior court, and that 
" this commission is to continue in force during good behavior, or 
until removed by conviction, &c, or by the Governor on the 
address of two-thirds of each branch of the Legislature." 

A couple of executions were found among the papers of Gen. 
Blackshear, which are here copied as a specimen of the olden 
time : — 

•vtt i • & . ' > To any lawful officer. 

Washington county. J J 

You are hereby commanded that of the goods and chattels, lands and 
tenements, of Sherwood Harper, you levy the sum of twenty dollars seven- 
teen and one-third cents, and costs of suit, to satisfy two judgments in 



DAVID BLACKSIIEAR. 361 

favor of Seth Bishop, obtained in this court the 11th September last, and 
also the cost of this execution. 

Given under my hand, this 9th of October, 1802. 

David Blackshear, J. P. 

It will be seen that the magistrate saved labor by issuing one 
execution expressing the amount of several judgments, — which is 
somewhat different from the practice now, and what was intended 
by the Legislature. The old system, as here exemplified, was at 
least a saving of cost, and was perfectly in character with Justice 
Blackshear in doing things boldly by the shortest method. 



w , . b ' ' > To any lawful officer. 

Washington county. J J 



You are hereby requested that of the goods and chattels, lands and 
tenements, of Godfrey Dreher and Daniel McElduff, you levy and make 
the sum of one hundred and twelve dollars and forty-six cents, to satisfy 
three judgments obtained in our Justice's Court, the 9th January last, in 
favor of Major Hurst, and also interest from the judgment until paid, and 
cost of these executions, and make you your return agreeable to law. 

Given under ray hand, this 9th April, 1808. 

David Blackshear, J. P. 

APPOINTED MAJOR OF BRIGADE. 
The author has not been able to ascertain the time when Mr. 
Blackshear received the appointment of brigade-major, — an office, 
he presumes, corresponding with the present inspectorship of 
brigade. As far back as October 21, 1797, orders were issued to 
him as major by the Adjutant-General of the State, as may be seen 
by reference to Document No. 2, at the end of this memoir. That 
order for raising troops was founded on the prospect of war with 
France, growing out of President Washington's proclamation of 
neutrality. His brother, Joseph Blackshear, was appointed by 
Gov. Jackson captain of militia in the Washington county regi- 
ment, April 22, 1800, and was commissioned lieutenant-colonel of 
the regiment, November 23, 1812, by Gov. Mitchell. 

HIS MARRIAGE. 
Major Blackshear was so engrossed with Indian difficulties and 
in providing himself with the goods of life, that he had no time to 
wait upon the ladies and cultivate their favor until his thirty-ninth 
year, when, on the 2d day of December, 1802, he married Miss 
Fanny Hamilton, daughter of John Hamilton, Esq., of Hancock 
county. This was a family of great influence and position in 
society. Mrs. Blackshear had six brothers, all men of chivalrous 
bearing and manly virtues. Thomas Hamilton was afterward 



362 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

aide-de-camp to Gen. Blackshear during the war, and Captain James 
Hamilton commanded a company of artillery in the same service, 
as may be seen by the orders of Gen. Floyd, at Darien, February 
6, 1815, No. 99 in the papers attached to this memoir. William 
Hamilton was also in the army, and for a long time brigade-in- 
spector, — a very accomplished drill-officer. He married two nieces 
of Gen. Blackshear, and daughters of his sister, Penelope Bryan. 
Duke Hamilton was brave as Caesar, and also had a military rank. 
He fought a duel with General Brown, and wounded him in the 
head, though not mortalty. Everard Hamilton is well known as 
the former Secretary of State under Gov. Troup's and Gov. 
Forsyth's administrations, including that of Gov. Gilmer from 
1829 to 1831. He was in the staff of Gen. Floyd, and gallantly 
participated in several battles with the Indians, and soon after the 
war married a daughter of Gen. Floyd. He died in Savannah 
several years ago, much lamented. In all the relations of life he 
was upright, and bore the reverses of fortune with true Christian 
fortitude. He had succeeded, however, in latter years, in laying 
the foundation for a good estate, leaving his family quite inde- 
pendent. This notice of the brothers has been deemed necessary 
in connection with the family ties of Gen. Blackshear, and of the 
still further alliance that may be mentioned when the author comes 
to speak of the general's children. 

The two sisters of Mrs. Blackshear were named Mary and 
Sarah. The former married George Hayes, Esq., of Clark 
county, and the latter married Robert Raines, who afterward 
resided in Twiggs county. Gen. Thomas E. Blackshear married 
Emily, one of her daughters, and Lucien H. Raines, her son, mar- 
ried Ann, daughter of Edward Blackshear, of Thomas county. It 
is thus see», and could be shown still further, that there was 
extensive inteimiarrying in the family, all resulting in the utmost 
happiness. 

FIRST LAND-LOTTERY. 

As the correspondence of Gen. Blackshear, to be found attached 
to this memoir, shows that he was earnestly concerned for the 
acquisition of the Oconee lands, an extract from the Journal of the 
House of Representatives at the extra session in June, 1806, (p. 
41,) is here given : — 

Ordered, That the Clerk inform the Senate that this House is now 
ready to receive them in the Representative-Chamber, for the purpose of 
electing thirty-eight surveyors of districts, in conformity to an act to dis- 
pose of and distribute the late cession of lands obtained from the Creek 



DAVID BLACKSHEAK. 



363 



68 


21. 


68 


22. 


67 


23. 


67 


24. 


66 


25. 


66 


26. 


65 


27. 


64 


28. 


64 


29. 


62 


30. 


62 


31. 


61 


32. 


61 


33. 


61 


34. 


61 


35. 


60 


36. 


60 


37. 


56 


38. 



William Downing, 



nation by the United States, in a treaty entered into at the city of 
Washington on the 14th of November, 1805. 

Whereupon the President and members of the Senate attended, and, 
being seated in the Representative-Chamber, both branches proceeded by 
joint ballot to said election; and, on the ballots being received and 
counted, it appeared that 

1. Abner Franklin had 71 vote3. 20. William Watson had 55 votes. 

2. Reuben Langstone, 

3. William Mitchell, 

4. Christopher Killbee, 

5. Hugh Montgomery, 

6. Levin Wailes, 

7. Noah Paramore, 

8. xVbner Davis, 

9. David Glenn, 

10. William Lott, 

11. Thomas Davis, 

12. Hezekiah Luckey, 

13. John D. Terrell, 

14. Reuben Dejernett, 

15. Hugh McDonald, 

16. Garland Hardwick, 

17. Benajah Smith, 

18. David McCord, 

19. Edmund B. Jenkins, 



James Alston, 
James Cooper, 
Hughes Walton, 
John Carpenter, 
Thomas Cooper, 
William Graves, 
David Creswell, 
John Ragan, 
George D. Willis, 
Isham S. Fannin, 
Moses Fort, 
Alexander Perryman, 41 
Leonard Abercrombie, 40 
Cuthbert Reese, 40 

John Dyson, 39 

John Moore, 38 

John Torrance, 38 



53 
52 
52 
51 
49 
47 
47 
46 
45 
44 
41 
41 



And thereupon the President of the Senate declared the aforesaid 
persons duly elected. 

YAZOO FRAUD. 

As the declaration in 1807 may interest the public, especially 
as it sustains the action of Gen. Blackshear and other men of in- 
fluence in opposing the Yazoo grant in 1795, the author copies the 
following resolutions, Avhich may be found in Clayton's Digest, 
page 680 : — 

Whereas, in the year seventeen hundred and ninety-five, as will be 
recollected with emotions of indignation by every virtuous citizen of this 
State, a combination of influential and moneyed men succeeded, by 
bribery and corruption, in obtaining the passage of an act conveying the 
right of this State in a well-known portion of the western country called 
YAZOO, to several companies of purchasers : And whereas, the succeed- 
ing Legislature, duly convinced of the flagitious agency which had pro- 
cured the act aforesaid, virtuously determined, by a rescinding law, to 
prohibit all contracts, conveyances, and grants originating in that fraud 
from being carried into effect, it solemnly becomes the duty of this 
Legislature to support and preserve consistent the reputation of this State, 
by denying the statement of a band of speculators, combined from New 
Hampshire to Mississippi, to embezzle the funds either of this State or 
the United States, and to riot on the profits of an extensive tract of coun- 
try, in alleging falsely that the State of Georgia contemplated, in the 
articles of cession to the United States of her western territory in eighteen 



364 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

hundred and two, any compromise of the Yazoo claims in any way 
whatever. And, inasmuch as it is important to the decision of Congress 
on this subject, and greatly to the dignity and justice of the State of 
Georgia, that the truth as it is in this matter should be fully and un- 
equivocally defined, it is therefore unanimously 

Resolved, by the Senate and Mouse of Representatives of the State of 
Georgia in General Assembly met, That they have viewed, and still view, 
with abhorrence the attempt made by a set of unprincipled men, commonly 
known by the appellation of Yazoo men, to corrupt a majority of the 
Legislature of this State in the year 1795 ; which attempt was rendered 
abortive by the virtue of the succeeding Legislature. 

Resolved, That it never was the intention of the Legislature of this 
State, when they ratified certain articles of agreement and cession entered 
into by commissioners appointed by the State of Georgia and the United 
States, to evince any desire to compromise claims that originated in fraud 
and which were reudered invalid by the State sovereignty. 

Resolved, That the thanks of the Senate and House of Representatives 
of the State of Georgia be given to John Randolph, member of Congress 
from the State of Virginia, and the late majority of the Ninth Congress, 
for their virtuous and manly opposition to a compromise which would, in 
their opinion, equally compromit the dignity of the Government of the 
United States and the sovereignty of this State. 

Resolved, That the Governor be requested to transmit copies of the 
foregoing resolutions to Mr. Randolph, to the Secretary of State, the 
Secretary of the Treasury, and the Attorney-General of the United States. 

Approved by the Governor the 23d day of November, 1807. 

APPOINTED BRIGADIER-GENERAL. 

While following Major Blackshear to a higher commission, it may 
be well to refer the attention of the reader to a letter from Gov. 
Jackson, dated June 18, 1799, advising him in certain difficulties 
with the Indians and with border-trespassers. This document is 
marked No. 6, and is valuable as so much history of the times. 
As justice of the peace, he exerted a salutary influence in pre- 
serving the public order and in bringing lawless men to punish- 
ment. He served in that capacity, it is believed, until his higher 
military rank vacated the office, as will appear by the following 
commission : — 

State of Georgia. — By his Excellency David B. Mitchell, Governor 
and Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy of this State and of the 
Militia thereof. 

To David Blackshear, Esquire, — greeting : 

We, reposing especial trust and confidence in your patriotism, valor, 
conduct, aud fidelity, do by these presents constitute and appointyou 
brigadier-general of the second brigade of the fifth division of the militia 
formed for the defence of this State and for repelling every hostile 
invasion thereof. You are therefore carefully and diligently to discharge 
the duty of brigadier-general by doing and performing all manner of 
things thereto belonging. And we do strictly charge and require all 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 365 

officers and privates under your command to be obedient to your 
orders as brigadier-general. And you are to observe and follow such 
orders and directions, from time to time, as you shall receive from me or 
a future Governor and Commander-in-Chief of this State for the time-beinjr, 
or any other of your superior officers, in pursuance of the trust reposed in 
you. This commission to continue in force during your usual residence 
within the brigade to which you belong, unless removed by sentence of a 
court-martial, or by the Governor, on the address of two-thirds of each 
branch of the General Assembly. 

Given under my hand and the seal of the Executive, at the 
State-House in Milledgeville, this niuth day of December in the 
year of ou. Lord one thousand eight hundred and twelve, and 
of the Independence of the United States of America the thirty- 
seventh. 

D. B. Mitchell. 
By the Governor : 

Abner Hammond, 

Secretary. 

It was not long after receiving this appointment before he was 
called into active service, as the military correspondence attached 
to this memoir will show. 

AVAR OF 1813, 1814, AND 1815. 

Merely as a guide to the official papers wherein the several 
matters are fully set forth, the author has prepared the following 
summary : — 

No. 11. A letter from Gov. Mitchell, to afford security to the 
inhabitants within the brigade in view of Indian hostilities. Aug. 
4, 1813. 

No. 12. Orders to Col. Wimberly to man certain forts for the 
protection of the frontier. August 7, 1813. 

No. 13. Report to Gov. Mitchell on measures taken to build 
forts in certain counties. August 13, 1813. 

No. 14. Letter from Gov. Mitchell, suggesting economy and 
certain works of defence. August 14, 1813. 

No. 15. Orders to Col. Joseph Blackshear to have certain diffi- 
culties brought before a court of inquiry. September 3, 1813. 

No. 16. Orders to Col. Wimberly to discharge the men on duty 
in Twiggs county. September 14, 1813. 

No. 17. Orders from Maj. Gen. Adams to raise certain troops 
and build stockades and block-houses on the frontier. November 
19, 1813. 

No. 18. Letter from Gov. Early respecting pay-roll, thanking 
Gen. Blackshear for his ideas on the subject of defence, &c. Dec. 
2, 1813. 

No. 19. Letter from Gov. Early, tendering the command of the 



366 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

army to Gen. Blackshear, in consequence of the disability of Gen. 
Floyd to take the field. January 4, 1814. 

No. 20. Letter to Gov. Early, noticing the plan of the campaign 
as given by Maj. Gen. Mcintosh, and the contradictory rumors 
about the British and Indians at Appalachicola, and his objections 
to the Indian regiment under Col. Hawkins. January 13, 1814. 

No. 21. Letter from Gov. Early relative to the contemplated 
road from the Ocmulgee River to St. Mary's, and asking a per- 
sonal interview with Gen. Blackshear. April 19, 1814. 

No. 22. Orders from Maj. Gen. Adams to call out the first class 
of the militia for discipline. 

No. 23. Letter from Gov. Early in regard to detachment of first 
class of militia, to be commanded by a major-general and two 
brigadier-generals, — offering the latter to Gen. Blackshear and 
Gen. Floyd. July 16, 1814. 

No. 24. Letter to Gov. Early, accepting the appointment of 
brigadier-general in the detachment of first class of militia. July 
20, 1814. 

No. 25. Letter from Maj. Freeman, the Governor's Secretary, 
stating provision for camp-equipage, and also that the British were 
reported to be in great force, having ten vessels-of-war at Appa- 
lachicola, and that Gen. Jackson had concluded a treaty of limits 
with the Creek Indians, &c. August 25, 1814. 

No. 26. Letter from Gov. Early, notifying that the War Depart- 
ment had called on Georgia for 3500 militia for United States 
service. September 1, 1814. 

No. 27. Letter from Col. Allen Tooke, giving certain alarms of 
an attack on Hartford by the Indians. September 8, 1814. 

No. 28. Orders of Gov. Early for a detachment of cavalry to 
explore the country between the Ocmulgee, opposite Hartford, and 
Flint River, to ascertain the route for a road, &c. Sept. 17, 1814. 

No. 29. Letter to Captain Richard Thomas, detailing his com- 
pany of mounted men for the exploration between Hartford and 
Flint River. September 19, 1814. 

No. 31. Orders from Gov. Early to muster certain commands 
into the United States service. October 21, 1814. 

No. 32. Letter from Farish Carter, army-contractor, as to the 
issuing of rations. November 23, 1814. 

No. 33. Letter from Farish Carter, army-contractor, applying 
for an escort for the protection of his cattle and hogs. November 
23, 1814. 

No. 34. Orders from Maj. Gen. Mcintosh to organize the detach- 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 367 

merit into two regiments and a battalion, — prescribing the com- 
panies to each, regulations for the quartermaster's department, &c. 
November 24, 1814. 

No. 35. Letter from Major Mark Hardin, giving certain reports 
of Gen. Jackson's success over the British near New Orleans ; a 
naval battle by Capt. Blakely : failure of Gen. Izard on the Nia- 
gara frontier : firmness of Gov. Early in suppressing certain dis- 
orderly conduct of a military corps at Milledgeville ; Austria taking 
the field against Napoleon ; diversion of Lord Hill from America 
with his fleet ; improvement of Georgia troops under drill, &c. 
November 27, 1814. 

No. 37. Order from Maj. Gen. Mcintosh to have Capt. Williams's 
and Capt. Thomas's companies consolidated into one in Col. Wim- 
berly's regiment. December 8, 1814. 

No. 38. Letter from Gov. Early, ordering the command of Gen. 
Blackshear to the Seminole settlements, sixty miles west of Flint 
River. December 9, 1814. 

No. 39. Orders from Maj. Gen. Mcintosh for Gen. Blackshear to 
march with Col. Wimberly's regiment of infantry from Camp Hope 
to Hartford, and from thence by opening a road in the most direct 
way to Flint River. December 14, 1814. 

No. 40. Letter to Col. Allen Tooke to have certain tools fur- 
nished for building flats, &c. December 12, 1814. 

No. 41. Letter from Gov. Early, inquiring the probable time 
the troops will leave Hartford for Flint River, that he may furnish 
a mounted reinforcement. December 14, 1814. 

No. 42. Orders to Col. Wimberly and Maj. Lawson to take up 
the line of march. December 16, 1814. 

No. 43. Letter from Gov. Early, granting the use of the public tools 
at Hartford; time of marching left discretionary; Capt. Thomas's 
cavalry to attend the troops to Flint River, &c. Dec. 16, 1814. 

No. 44. Letter from Maj. Gen. Mcintosh, stating that Col. 
Hawkins had been informed by a runner from Forbes's Store that 
ten British vessels were at anchor near Deer Island, — seven of 
them very large, each with two thousand men on board, — and the 
other smaller vessels were loaded with presents for the Indians ; 
that the British had built a strong fort at Forbes's Store and were 
landing their troops, part of whom were negroes ; that the British 
had invited the Indians to come and receive presents. Gen. Black- 
shear's command must proceed with all diligence to the point of 
their destination, at the confluence of the Chattahoochee and Flint 
Rivers. December 19, 1814. 



368 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

No. 45. Letter to Gov. Early, transmitting list of delinquents 
and deserters, delay in crossing the river at Hartford for want of 
tools to build flats, &c. December 23, 1814. 

No. 46. Orders to Capt. Thomas to hold his troop of horse of 
one hundred men in readiness to march on a tour of five months. 
December 23, 1814. 

No. 47. Orders to Capt. Groce to hold in readiness all the first 
class of Pulaski county militia, and to apprize Maj. James Patton 
of the time and place of rendezvous. December 23, 1814. 

No. 48. Letter to Gov. Early, informing him that part of the 
army had crossed the Ocmulgee at Hartford, and that the whole 
would be over as soon as one flat could transport them ; that sup- 
plies were scant and great deficiency in the quartermaster's de- 
partment ; no contractor ; rations short. Intended to proceed, 
whether he had rations or not, &c. December 28, 1814. 

No. 49. Letter to Maj. Gen. Mcintosh, stating that the com- 
mand had crossed the river at Hartford, and that a detachment 
had opened the road and built bridges, so that the next day the 
march would begin, reaching first depot in six days. Had no 
quartermaster-general, and only a forage-master to act for him. 
Without funds ; not more than one day's rations ahead, and some- 
times less ; no contractor. He would persevere in obedience to 
orders, whether he had supplies or not. December 30, 1814. 

No. 50. Letter from Anthony Porter, Secretary to the Gover- 
nor, relative to tents, pistols, and other supplies, Capt. Thomas's 
cavalry, &c. December 30, 1814. 

No. 51. To Major James Patton, ordering the first class of 
militia in the frontier-districts of Twiggs county to be in readiness 
to join the first class of Pulaski county, under the command of 
Capt. William H. Groce. December 23, 1814. 

No. 52. Report of Alexander McDonald, assistant forage-master, on 
the state of supplies, transportation of corn, &c. December 31, 1814. 

No. 53. Letter from Capt. Richard H. Thomas, stating that he 
had applied to the Executive Department for tents, pistols, and 
swords for his troop. January 1, 1815. 

No. 54. Letter from Wilson Navey, principal forage-master, ex- 
plaining certain irregularities, and that a better system would be 
observed in future. January 1, 1815. 

No. 55. Letter from A. McDonald, giving the particulars of the 
accident at the ferry opposite Hartford, the sinking of the flat 
with public stores, &c. January 3, 1815. 

No. 56. Orders to A. McDonald respecting transportation of 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 369 

tools, baggage, supplies, &c, and escort, when necessary. Janu- 
ary 3, 1815. 

No. 57. Letter to A. McDonald, reminding him that, as agent 
for the quartermaster's department, it was his duty to make and 
repair bridges and roads, to build boats, &c. for the army. Janu- 
ary 4, 1815. 

No. 58. Copy of a letter from Col. Hawkins to Gen. Mcintosh, 
touching certain Indian murders and conduct of the British at 
Forbes's Store, vessels, troops, tampering with the Indians, &c. 
January 4, 1815. 

No. 59. Letter to Col. Hawkins, requesting him to recommend 
some twenty Indians to act as guides, interpreters, spies and mes- 
sengers in the nation, for the use of the army, &c. January 5, 
1815. 

No. 60. Letter from Maj. Gen. Mcintosh, regretting that he had 
ordered Gen. Blackshear's command to Flint River, as information 
from Mobile showed danger in that quarter. Forced marches were 
necessary. Go on, as the detachment, with the aid of Col. Haw- 
kins's Indian regiment, would subdue the hostile tribes, then for 
Gen. B. to proceed with his army direct to the Mobile territory to 
form a junction, &c. January 5, 1815. 

No. 61. General orders to the command about firing on the 
Indians during the march, to avoid communicating the strength, 
route, or object of the army, and always to respect the bearer of 
a white flag. January 6, 1815. 

No. 62. Letter from Gov. Early, enclosing copies from Generals 
Mcintosh and Winchester, showing the imperious necessity for 
a change of route, and of marching at once to overtake Gen. 
Mcintosh before he reached Mobile. Route to be left at discre- 
tion, &c. January 6, 1815. 

No. 63. Letter to A. McDonald, notifying that the first 30,000 
rations must be hauled from Hartford, and that on 13th inst. the 
second 30,000 will be on demand ; that a place of deposit must be 
built for the public stores, and a fort for defence on Flint River, 
&c. January 7, 1815. 

No. 64. Report from A. McDonald that he had started four 
wagons, and would start five more next day, with provisions for 
the army and forage for the horses, from Hartford. January 7, 
1815. 

No. 65. Letter from Maj. Gen. Mcintosh, giving intelligence 

received from one of his confidential Indians of the proceedings 

of the enemy at Forbes's Store; that the British had 13,000 
Vol. I.— 24 



370 MEMOIR CF GENERAL 

troops near New Orleans, marching on that city, had laid Pass 
Christian in ashes ; that Gen. Jackson had ordered all the free 
people of color to take up arms ; that eleven British barges had 
been sunk, with their crews, and five American gunboats had been 
taken, — all rendering it necessary to call for a battalion from 
Gen. Blackshear's command to support Gen. Jackson, and then 
leave enough, with Col. Hawkins's reinforcement of 1000 warriors, 
to protect the Georgia frontier, &c. January 9, 1815. 

No. 66. Orders to A. McDonald to have forthwith twenty-six 
empty wagons at the camp on Flint River (exclusive of those on 
the way) for transportation, &c. January 8, 1815. 

No. 67. Letter from Gov. Early, countermanding the orders of 
Gen. Mcintosh to march on Mobile, leaving the detachment to 
pursue the route it was going. January 10, 1815. 

No. 68. Report of Wilson Navey that he had shipped a boat- 
load [barge] of flour and corn to Fort Barrington for the army, 
when it shall reach there. January 10, 1815. 

No. 69. Letter from Maj, Gen. Mcintosh, approving the Gover- 
nor's orders, of 6th inst., to march for Mobile, and urging rapid 
movement for that purpose. Col. Hawkins to remain for the 
chastisement of the Seminoles or any other hostile Indians. 
January 11, 1815. 

No. 70. Talk from Col. Hawkins, U. S. Agent, to be delivered 
by Gen. Blackshear to Jack Kennard, a half-breed, to render such 
service as the general may require, &c. January 11, 1815. 

No. 71. Letter from Col. Hawkins by Coe-e-maut-lau, of Casse- 
tau, express, with despatches for the army, and with a talk to the 
chiefs of Am-mic-cul-le. January 11, 1815. (See No. 72.) 

No. 73. Letter to Maj. Gen. Mcintosh, reporting march from 
the Ocmulgee 31st ult., and arrival at Flint River on 6th inst., 
cutting and hauling timber for a fort, return of wagons to Hart- 
ford for supplies, when, on 8th inst., received the Governor's letter 
(No. 62) changing route from Appalachicola to Mobile ; sickness of 
troops, &c. January 11, 1815. 

No. 74. Letter from Gov. Early in relation to hospital-stores 
under the care of Maj. A. B. Fannin. January 12, 1815. 

No. 75. Letter to Gen. Floyd, on march down the Altamaha 
for the defence of the seaboard. (Without date.) 

No. 76. Letter to Gov. Early, expressing regret at the unfounded 
rumors from Col. Hawkins's Indian runners about the British at 
Forbes's Store upon which the order of 9th, taking one battalion, 
was issued by Gen. Mcintosh, and, after that, the imperative order 



DAVID BLACKSIIEAR. 871 

of 11th to march with whole command for Mobile. The field 
clear, Col. Hawkins can keep as many of his Indians under pay 
and rations as he may think necessary, and then write and talk, 
and talk and write, to his satisfaction. January 14, 1815. 

No. 77. Letter to Maj. Gen. Mcintosh, recapitulating that on 
12th inst. he received orders to co-operate with Col. Hawkins 
against the British and Indians on the frontier of Georgia. Now, 
just received two orders, — 9th and 11th, — directing whole force to 
Mobile, pursuant to the Governor's order of 6th inst. Shall retrace 
steps and take your route at Fort Hawkins, to form junction for 
the defence of the Mobile country. January 14, 1815. 

No. 78. Letter from Timothy Barnard, an educated and trusty 
half-breed Indian, sending a red man of Chehaw as express, with 
a letter from the Agency. January 14, 1815. 

No. 79. Letter to Gov. Early, acknowledging receipt, on 14th 
inst., of imperative orders from Gen. Mcintosh, dated 11th inst., 
to march with whole force to Mobile. Suggests that some changes 
are necessary, &c. January 15, 1815. 

No. 80. Letter from Gov. Early, expressing regret at the fre- 
quent change of route ; will have to send 500 troops on State ac- 
count to accomplish the object first in view, to be commanded by 
Maj. Freeman. January 16, 1815. 

No. 81. Letter from Gov. Early, stating the crisis on the sea-board, 
— fifteen ships-of-the-line, seven frigates, and a number of smaller 
vessels, landing on Cumberland Island ; that the British barges 
occupy all the sounds and inlets between St. Mary's and Bruns- 
wick ; from the necessity of the case, the proposed march to 
Mobile is countermanded, and Gen. Blackshear's whole force 
ordered to the point invaded, — the sea-coast of Georgia. January 
19, 1815. 

No. 82. Orders to Farish Carter, army-contractor, to keep 
30,000 rations on hand monthly, and to cause no delay in the 
movement of the troops for want of provisions. January 21, 1815. 

No. 83. Letter to Capt. Lane, directing the quartermaster- 
general's department to call on the ordnance-department for at 
least five hundred pounds of best powder and ten reams of car- 
tridge-paper, and forward to army on its march to Darien. Janu- 
ary 21, 1815. 

No. 84. Letter to Maj. Gen. Mcintosh, stating obedience 
to orders he had given, and that while on way by Hartford for 
Mobile the Governor's order turned the command in another 
direction. The peculiar state of things led to a breach of his 



372 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

orders; but it was believed the course of his Excellency would be 
sanctioned. January 21, 1815. 

No. 85. Letter to Gov. Early, notifying that last orders had 
been obeyed, an'd the army was marching for the seaboard, — the 
Governor assuming the responsibility of a breach of the major- 
general's orders. January 22, 1815. 

No. 86. Letter from Maj. Gen. Mcintosh at Fort Decatur 
compliments Col. Boothe in building boats for transportation 
down the Tallapoosa and Alabama Rivers to Mobile, and express- 
ing a hope that Gen. Blackshear's command will join in eight or 
ten days. Gen. Jackson had been skirmishing with the enemy 
near New Orleans, (battle of the 8th not then heard from.) 
January 22, 1815. 

No. 87. Letter from Maj. Gen. Mcintosh, urging forward, 
and expressing the hope that command would join him at the 
Tallapoosa by 5th or 6th February, when he expected to be ready 
to take boats for Mobile. January 23, 1815. 

No. 88. Letter from Maj. A. B. Fannin, Deputy Quartermas- 
ter-General of the United States Army, respecting the delivery of 
rations at certain points, increased diligence of the subordinates in 
future, &c. January 24, 1815. 

No. 89. Letter from Gov. Early, stating that all the country 
south of the Altamaha was in possession of the British; that the 
people had fled, and the militia and regulars had retreated across 
the river. It was supposed that the enemy intended to march by 
land on Savannah. Suggestions were made as to depots, and the 
employment of vedettes to observe and inform as to their move- 
ments. January 25, 1815. 

No. 90. Letter from Anthony Porter, Secretary to the Governor, 
sending a Savannah Republican of 17th instant, containing certain 
letters to Gen. Floyd, detailing the operations of the enemy 
near St. Mary's, &c. January 25, 1815. 

No. 91. Letter from Anthony Porter, stating that he had sent 
by wagon four hundred pounds powder, a lot of cartridge-paper, 
and five boxes containing in all 14,850 musket-cartridges, for the 
command. January 25, 1815. 

No. 92. Letter of A. McDonald, exculpating himself for delay 
in transportation, &c. January 22, 1815. 

No. 93. Orders to the army-contractor for 100,000 complete 
rations, to be delivered at St. Savilla Bluff on the Altamaha. 
January 27, 1815. 

No. 95. Letter to Gov. Early, detailing progress of the 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 373 

detachment, with remarks on the contractor and quartermaster- 
general's department; short of rations and forage. January 27, 
1815. 

No. 96. Letter from Gen. Floyd, noticing the conduct of the 
British in pillaging St. Mary's and destroying the fort and maga- 
zine at Point Peter, the seizure of all vessels in the waters of the 
St. Mary's. Force about two thousand, of which number four hun- 
dred are said to be black. The stations of troops and their officers 
are noticed as defending the coast. January 31, 1815. 

No. 97. Letter to Gen. Floyd reporting advance, witli de- 
tention occasionally from high waters and extensive swamps almost 
impassable from the great number of wagons flying from the in- 
vaded district. Force a little above eight hundred. The sick left 
at Hartford are beginning to join the army. February 2, 1815. 

No. 98. Letter to Captain A. A. Massias, stating that command 
would arrive at Fort Barrington in the evening; that a feu-de-joie 
of nineteen guns had been fired at Fort Hawkins on the Monday 
previous, because of the victory gained by Gen. Jackson over 
the British at New Orleans. February 4, 1815. 

No. 99. Orders from Gen. Floyd distributing troops at cer- 
tain stations, and placing Darien and its vicinity under the special 
protection of Gen. Blackshear. February 6, 1815. 

No. 100. Letter from Gov. Early, stating that Gen. Mcintosh 
had fully approved the diversion of the command from Mobile 
to the coast. February 8, 1815. 

No. 101. Letter from Anthony Porter, enclosing commissions for 
officers in the command, to fill certain vacancies. February 8, 
1815. 

No. 102. Orders from Maj. Gen. Pinckney in regard to arrests 
by military authority, &c. February 8, 1815. 

No. 103. Orders from Gen. Floyd, detaching from command 
one full company to join the local militia under Maj. Hopkins, for 
the purpose of preoccupying Sapelo Island in order to repel any 
hostile attempt of the enemy. February 12, 1815. 

No. 104. Letter from Gen. Floyd, stating that it was confi- 
dently believed the preliminaries of peace had been signed at 
Ghent on 24th November, though it would be unwise and impolitic 
to rely on its probability. February 12, 1815. 

No. 105. Orders from Maj. Gen. Pinckney to muster the first 
regiment, and part of second and thirtieth regiments, and certain 
companies of dragoons and militia. February 13, 1815. 

No. 106. Letter to Gen. Floyd, giving information of certain 



S74 MEMOIR OP GENERAL 

pillaging-parties of the British in the neighborhood of Darien. 
February 13, 1815. 

No. 107. Orders from Maj. Gen. Pinckney, discharging cer- 
tain troops from the service of the United States. February 
14, 1815. 

No. 108. Letter of the Secretary of War to Gen. Pinckney, 
announcing that a treaty of peace was concluded between the 
United States and Great Britain at Ghent, on 24th December last, 
and that hostilities between the troops of the two countries should 
cease. February 14, 1815. 

No. 109. Orders to the military-store keepers. February 16, 
1815. 

No. 110. Letter to Maj. Hopkins, notifying him of the official 
intelligence of peace, and ordering the troops under his command 
to be mustered, &c. February 25, 1815. 

No. 111. Letter from Gen. Floyd, describing the celebration 
of the news of peace in Savannah, — the illuminations and music, 
military parade, and other rejoicing. February 25, 1815. 

No. 112. Orders from Gen. Floyd, discharging the militia 
from the service of the United States within the State of Georgia, 
&c. &c. February 27, 1815. 

Though not a part of the official communications relating to the 
war, two letters addressed to Gen. Blackshear, descriptive of 
the conduct of the British on the coast of Georgia, have been in- 
cluded in the papers connected with this memoir. One was from 
John Sawyer, Esq., dated January 27, 1815, and is marked No. 
93; and the other was from Gen. John Houstoun Mcintosh, 
dated April 2, 1815, and is marked No. 113, — both of which are 
interesting and worthy of perusal. The high sources from which 
they emanated sufficiently guarantee the facts. 

The routes of the army, marches and countermarches, may be 
ascertained from the correspondence of which an abstract has been 
given. It is not necessary to dwell on the incidents of the cam- 
paign or of the character of Gen. Blackshear as a commander. 
That he acted wisely, promptly, and to the satisfaction of his supe- 
riors in authority, as well as to the people of Georgia, is fully 
shown by the following vote of thanks : — 

In Senate, December 12, 1815. 

On motion of Mr. Charlton : — 

The late war with Great Britain being closed by an honorable peace 
imposes upon the Legislature of this State the duty of approving the 
conduct of those defenders of their country who deserve it, and who have 
not heretofore received the tribute of applause due to their services. And 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 375 

in tendering this public expression of Legislative thanks and gratitude, 
the General Assembly of this State are first attracted by the gallant and 
determined manner the late Major-General Mcintosh, and the present 
Brigadier-General Blackshear, their officers and men, obeyed the call of 
the State, and promptly marched in the most inclement season to meet 
the enemy then threatening a neighboring territory of the United States, 
and, with a zeal and patriotism highly honorable to this army, endeavored 
to meet the foe, in despite of danger or his discipline and superiority of 
numbers. Wherefore, 

Be it Resolved, unanimously, by the Senate and House of Representa- 
tives of the General Assembly of the State of Georgia, That the Legisla- 
ture, for and in behalf of the free people of this State, render their thanks 
to the said Major-General Mcintosh and Brigadier-General Blackshear, 
and the brave officers and soldiers under their command. 

And whereas, during the late invasion of this State, an army was placed 
under the command of Brigadier-General John Floyd, who, as commander 
of the militia of this State, had under his orders various officers, soldiers, 
and volunteers, exerting themselves in defence of their insulted and invaded 
country, whose general conduct and bravery met the approbation of the 
said General Floyd : 

Be it therefore Resolved, unanimously, by the authority aforesaid, That 
the thanks of this Legislature, acting for the free people of this State, be, 
and the same are hereby, tendered to the said General Floyd for his 
gallant and patriotic services, as also to the officers, soldiers, and volun- 
teers under his command, in the service lately performed in the eastern 
division of this State. 

Be it further Resolved, That copies of these resolutions be presented by 
his Excellency the Governor to Major-General Mcintosh, Brigadier- 
General Blackshear, and to General Floyd. 

Approved, December 16, 1815. 

OCONEE NAVIGATION. 

At the close of the war, Gen. Blackshear returned to his farm in 
Laurens county. At the session of 1815 the Legislature appointed 
him a member of the Board of Commissioners for the Improvement 
of the Navigation of the Oconee River, to admit the passage of 
boats, from its junction with the Ocmulgee, to Milleclgeville. This 
employment cost him much time and labor, without any other 
reward than the consciousness of having done what might be useful 
to the public. As the author, more than twenty-five years ago, had 
a brief official connection with the board, he submits the following 
documents, which will serve as a better explanation than any he 
could now give on the subject : — 

Executive Department, Milledgeville, January 7, 1831. 

Sm: — I enclose to you an order from this Department appointing you 

agent for the State, to complete the settlement with the commissioners of 

the Oconee River, (which has been in part effected by the former State 

Agent, Richard K. Hines, Esq.,) in pursuance of resolutions of the 



376 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

Legislature passed at its last session, a copy of which is also enclosed for 
your information and direction. 

Very respectfully, yours, &c, 

George R. Gilmer. 
Stephen F. Miller, Esq. 

[enclosure.] 

Executive Department, Milledgeville, January 7, 1831. 
Ordered, That Stephen F. Miller, Esq. be, and he is hereby, appointed 
agent for the State to complete the settlement with the commissioners of 
the Oconee River, (which has been in part effected by the former State 
Agent, Richard K. Hines, Esq,,) in pursuance of resolutions of the Legis- 
lature, approved December 23, 1830. 
By the Governor : 
Miller Grieve, 

Secretary Ex. Dep. 

REPLY TO THE AGENT. 

Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, February 17, 1831. 
Sir : — Your letter of the 14th inst. has been received, and I have been 
instructed by the Governor to transmit to you the enclosed copy of Mr. 
Hines's report, a copy of the receipts given by the commissioners of the 
Oconee Navigation Association, and the copy of the report of the com- 
mittee of the late board, taken from their book of minutes at pages 35, 
36, 37, and 38, referred to by Mr. Hines. 

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

E. H. Pierce, 

Secretary Ex. Dep. 
Stephen F. Miller, Esq., 

Agent, &c. 

Condensed view of the account accompanying R. K. Hines's Report as Agent for settling 
with the Oconee River Commissioners. 

Appropriations $20,000 00 Amount disbursed $16,959 87J 

Bank-stock 10,000 00 Notes for money loaned... 6,106 64 j 

Dividends on bank-stock.... 1,050 00 Notes for hire 776 42 

Cash of R. A. Blount, Sec'y 459 43 Bank-stock 10,000 00 

SaleofBias 455 00 Cash in treasury 1,400 00 

Hire of public hands 2,760 36 Cash in hands State Agent 98 79J- 

Interest on money loaned.. 616 94 J 



$35,341 73£ $35,341 73£ 

THE GOVERNOR'S COMMUNICATION. 

Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, November 18, 1831. 
To the Senate : — I herewith lay before the General Assembly the 
report of Stephen F. Miller, Esq., the agent appointed for the State to 
complete a settlement with the Commissioners of the Oconee River, under 
the resolution of the General Assembly, passed on the 23d of December. 
1830. Wilson Lumpkin. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 377 

agent's REPORT. 

Marion, November 1, 1831. 

Sir : — The resolution of the Legislature passed 23d December, 1830, 
under which your Excellency appointed me agent for the State to com- 
plete a settlement with the Commissioners of the Oconee River, left no 
particular directiou how it should be carried into effect. In fixing a point 
of time at which to commence my labors, the report made in the Senate 
the 2d December, 1824, in which the funds and property of the association 
were ascertained up to that date, readily occurred to me as the most proper 
and conclusive. I have therefore limited my investigation from that time 
to the organization of the new board created by the act of 26th December, 
1826, for the improvement of the Oconee River below Carter's Bridge, 
opposite Milledgcville, believing that I was foreclosed by the facts con- 
tained in that report from making inquiries beyond it. As the basis, 
then, upon which I have acted, I have charged the commissioners with 
having had " under their control eighteen working-hands, ten thousand 
dollars in bank-stock, five hundred and fifty-one dollars and forty-seven 
cents in notes, accounts, and attorneys' receipts, and one hundred and 
twenty dollars cash on hand" the 2d December, 1824, and the sum of 
three thousand dollars appropriated by act of the 22d December, 1825, 
together with the sum of two hundred and twenty-nine dollars and ninety- 
five cents received from Mr. John T. Rowland, in 1826, as a balance for 
hire of the public hands. These furnish the debits of the board, and by 
these I have made the settlement. 

It may not be amiss to consider briefly the origin of the Oconee Navi- 
gation Association. The Legislature, by act of 16th December, 1815, 
appointed a board, consisting of five individuals, to improve the Oconee 
River, with authority to pursue such measures, under the direction of the 
Governor, as he might deem most proper to accomplish the object of the 
appropriation, thereby made, of ten thousand dollars; in addition to which, 
the further sum of ten thousand dollars was allowed by act of the 19th 
December, 1817. By the act it became " the duty of the commissioners 
to make a fair, just, and regular return, every six months, to his Excel- 
lency the Governor, of all disbursements made by the commissioners, and 
of the progress made by them in clearing out the obstructions in the said 
river." When the commissioners ceased to obey this direction the agent 
has not been informed, but presumes it was complied with until the 
Legislature of 1824, when it was "Resolved, That said commissioners are 
entitled to the highest confidence for their strict attention and indefati- 
gable exertions in promoting the interest of the State so far as respects 
the improvement of said river." With this evidence before me, I felt 
bound to assume the state of the institution as presented in that report 
as the true basis to start upon. The commissioners have produced to me 
vouchers for all the expenditures made by them from the 2d December, 
1824, to 1st February, 1827, about which latter time the new board went 
into operation ; and I herewith submit copies of all the vouchers thus 
produced, marked from 1 to 30 inclusive, — the commissioners desiring to 
retain the originals, which I agreed to return to them. 

By the account-current herewith transmitted, it is shown that the com- 
missioners, iu the time to which I have confined my examination, have 
had under their control the sum of thirteen thousand nine hundred and one 
dollars and forty-two cents, in disposable funds, including bank-stock, and 
that they have expended thirteen thousand five hundred and ninety-eight 



378 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

dollars and thirty-seven cents, and that the sum of five hundred and fifty- 
one dollars and forty-seven cents remains on hand in " notes, accounts, and 
attorneys' receipts," mostly on insolvent persons, and all barred by the 
statute of limitations. I have inspected a list of these debts, a copy of 
which is marked No. 30, and was informed by Col. Blount that no part 
had been collected. Those corresponding in amount and description with 
those mentioned in the report of 1824 are believed to be the same, and 
the only bad debts which accumulated in the hands of the commissioners 
during their service, by which a balance of one hundred and forty-eight 
dollars and forty-two cents is left in favor of the commissioners, exceeding 
their receipts. -The public hands were increased to twenty-one, sixteen 
of whom were delivered to the marshal of Milledgeville, as will be seen by 
a copy of his receipt, marked A, and a part of the balance sold, and others 
died. None of the proceeds of sale were received by the commissioners 
with whom I settled, but their successors, for which Mr. Hines, former 
States' Agent, has accounted. 

In the report of Mr. Hines, acted upon by the last Legislature, allusion 
was made to a settlement which Col. Blount, in behalf of the board, had 
made with Gen. Blackshcar for moneys received and expended by the 
latter. This reckoning extended several years beyond the report in Senate 
of 1824, and was simply an ascertainment, between members of the same 
board, how funds committed to each had been applied. Col. Blount was 
of opinion, as stated in his letter to Mr. Hines, that he had omitted to 
charge Gen. Blackshear with five hundred dollars received from John T. 
Rowland. In that settlement, a copy of which I have before me, it is 
perceived that Gen. Blackshear was charged with ten hundred and twenty 
dollars received from Mr. Rowland, generally, without referring to any 
particular date. I considered it due to the State, to all the members of 
the board, and particularly in justice to Gen. Blackshear, that this should 
be sought into and explained, and herewith submit a copy of Col. Blount's 
communication to me, marked B, and the account it enclosed, marked C, 
which puts the matter at rest. By the document which I have taken as 
a guide, I am clearly impressed that the State as well as commissioners 
accpaired rights which it is not my business to disurb, and that all trans- 
actions between the parties up to 2d December, 1824, are adjusted by 
solemn legislation. 

I have thus endeavored, in the best manner of which I am capable, to 
perform the duties required by my appointment, and earnestly hope that 
the result may be approved by your Excellency and satisfactory to the 
Legislature. I am, most respectfully, sir, your obedient servant, 

Stephen F. Miller. 

His Excellency George R. Gilmer. 

The communication of the Governor and report of the Agent 
were referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Internal 
Improvement. 

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE. 

In Senate, December 16, 1831. 

The Committee on Agriculture and Internal Improvement, to whom 
was referred the report of Stephen F. Miller, the agent appointed under 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 379 

a resolution of the last Legislature to effect a full settlement with the 
Commissioners of the Oconee River below Milledgeville, together with the 
accompanying documents, have had the same under their attentive con- 
sideration, and ask leave to submit the following report : — 

The agent has properly, in the opinion of the committee, limited his 
investigation to the period between the 2d December, 1824, at which time 
the funds and property of the association were ascertained, a satisfactory 
report made thereon to the Legislature, and the creation of the new board 
by the act of 26th December, 1826. By the account-current accompany- 
ing the report, it appears that the commissioners have had in disposable 
funds, including bank-stock, 813,901 42, and that they have expended 
£13,498 37, — leaving a balance in the hands of the commissioners of 
$403 05. The agent remarks that the balance against the commissioners 
consists chiefly of notes, accounts, and attorneys' receipts, mostly on insol- 
vent persons, and all barred by the statute of limitations, and that he was 
informed by Col. Blount that no part of the same had been collected. 
The agent also states that he has inspected a list of these debts, a copy 
of which is appended to his report, marked No. 30 ; that they correspond 
in amount and description with those mentioned in the report of 1824; 
that they are in his opinion the same, and that they are the only bad 
debts which accumulated iu the hands of the commissioners during their 
service. Admitting that the commissioners have done all that could have 
been reasonably expected of them in the collection of these debts, there 
would be a balance in their favor of 8148 42 ; but this they do not even 
assert, nor does it appear that all of the above-mentioned debts were bad ; 
so that the committee cannot assume the settlement to be complete until 
those evidences of debt are more satisfactorily accounted for; and in no 
event, in the opinion of the committee, could the commissioners rightfully 
charge the State more than the amount of the funds placed in their 
hands : though it is the opinion of the committee, under the circum- 
stances as they are presented in the report of the agent, that a further 
prosecution of the settlement with the commissioners would only result in 
expense to the State without any corresponding benefit. 

The public hands under the control of the commissioners have been 
accounted for to the satisfaction of the committee. 

It appears by the report of Mr. Hines, made to the late Governor and 
acted on by the last Legislature, that Col. Blount believed he had omitted 
to charge Gen. Blackshear with 8500 paid him by Mr. Rowland : it now 
appears that the transaction took place previous to the settlement acted on 
by the Legislature in 1824, and consequently, in the opinion of the com- 
mittee, must have been accounted for iu that settlement. The committee, 
in conclusion, respectfully recommend the adoption of the following 
resolution : — 

Resolved, That the further interference of the Legislature in regard to 
the settlement with the Commissioners of the Oconee River is unnecessary. 

Approved, December 26, 1831. 

It is due to the character of the Hon. Beverly Allen, who was 
chairman of the committee, to say that he had long been a faithful 
Senator from Elbert county and was a man highly respected for 
his virtues and intelligence. The communication of the Governor, 
the report of the agent, and the report of the committee were all 



880 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

published in the Georgia Journal of January 12, 1832, as a final 
settlement with the commissioners. 



SERVICE IN THE LEGISLATURE. 

Whether Gen. Blackshear had served in the Legislature previous 
to his return from his military expedition against the Indians and 
British, the author has not been able to satisfy himself, and of 
course cannot enlighten his readers on the subject. From con- 
versations he has had with Gen. Blackshear about the inception 
and defeat of the Yazoo Grant and the stormy times in the Legis- 
lature at Louisville, of which he was an eye-witness in 1795-96, it 
is probable that lie was a Representative from Washington county, 
standing side by side with Gen. James Jackson in repealing that 
iniquitous measure. It is certain, however, as the journals will 
show, that he was a Senator from Laurens county from the year 
1816 to 1825, inclusive, until he voluntarily retired from public 
life. 

At page 67 of the Senate Journal for 1816 the following entry 
appears, as of December 16 : — 

Mr. Blackshear, from the committee appointed to make arrangements 
for the funeral and interment of the Honorable George G. Nowlan, a 
Senator from the county of Effingham, reported the following resolu- 
tions : — 

Resolved, That the Senate, deeply impressed with the sudden and 
unexpected dispensation of Providence which hath deprived it of one of 
its most valuable members, will wear crape on the left arm during the 
remainder of the session, and for ten days thereafter, as a testimonial of 
their high respect for the deceased. 

Resolved, That the said committee do, in the name of the Senate, 
invite his Excellency the Governor, the Speaker and members of the 
House of Representatives, with all the Executive officers, to attend the 
interment of the deceased to-morrow at nine o'clock A.M. 

Resolved, That the committee appointed do wait on the Rev. Myles 
Greene, and request him to attend on the said interment. 

At the session of 1823, Gen. Blackshear was appointed Chair- 
man of the Committee on the State of the Republic, the other 
members being Messrs. Berrien, Jones of Baldwin, Cook, Allen 
of Burke, Val. Walker, and Wooten. A few passages from the 
journal will be given: — 

P. 49. On motion of Mr. Blackshear, — 

Resolved, That the Judiciary Committee be instructed to inquire into 
the expediency of reporting a bill to prevent the repeated running away 
of slaves under aggravated circumstances, with death or such other 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 381 

punishment as the court or jury may think best calculated to prevent the 
pernicious practice. 

[The Committee on the Judiciary were Messrs. Berrien, Gamble, Bur- 
ney, Wellborn, Bonner, and Robinson.] 

P. 94. On motion of Mr. Blackshear, — 

Resolved, That the Judiciary Committee be instructed to inquire into 
the expediency of reporting a bill to enable a jury to find a divorce, on 
legal principles, for acts of either of the parties after as well as before 
the contract of matrimony is entered into. 

P. 94. On motion of Mr. Blackshear, — 

Resolved, That the Judiciary Committee be instructed to inquire into 
the expediency of reporting a bill to have for its object so to amend the 
penal code as not to subject persons convicted of crime resulting from the 
heat of passion, or self-defence, to penitentiary punishment, but in the 
usual mode. 

An event occurred at this session which the author thinks may 
with propriety be noticed in this memoir, — the death of William 
Robertson, Secretary of the Senate, who had filled the office some 
twenty-five or thirty years with credit to himself and with the 
approbation of the whole country. He was indeed a faithful public 
servant, who died at his post, — a warm personal friend of Gen. 
Blackshear. 

P. 95. November 24, 1823, Mr. Berrien presented the following 
report : — 

It being represented to the Senate that William Robertson, Esquire, 
late Secretary of this House, hath departed this life yesterday at the seat 
of Government, in indigent circumstances; 

And it appearing to this House that it is a just tribute of respect to 
the memory of a man whose public services have been so long devoted to 
the people of Georgia, and to this House in particular, that the funeral 
of the deceased should be conducted under its immediate superintendence, 
and at the public expense : 

Therefore Resolved, That Messrs. Berrien, Walker, Coffee, Groves, and 
Baker, be a committee to make the necessary arrangements for the funeral 
of the said William Robertson, and that they report thereon without delay 
to this House, to the intent that the President and members may attend 
the same. 

And be it further Resolved, That the Governor be, and he is hereby, 
requested to defray, out of the contingent fund, the expense of the funeral 
and last sickness of the said William Robertson, deceased. 

P. 98. Mr. Berrien, from the committee to make arrangements for the 
funeral of William Robertson, Esq., late Secretary of the Senate, re- 
ported, — 

That the committee had made the necessary arrangements for that 
purpose; that they have united on the Rev. William Capers, who would 
attend on the interment of the deceased ; that the committee had, in the 
name of the Senate, invited his Excellency the Governor, the Speaker 
and members of the House of Representatives, with all the State-House 
officers, to attend the interment of the deceased, this evening, [Nov. 24,] 
at three o'clock, and that the funeral-procession be formed at the house of 



382 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

Mr. Betton at that time, and proceed to the place of interment in the 
following order: — 1. The clergy, with the committee of arrangements; 

2. The Corpse, supported by six members of the Senate as pall-bearers; 

3. The President and members of the Senate as chief mourners, two-and- 
two; 4. The Governor aud State-House officers; 5. The Speaker and 
members of the House of Representatives, two-and-two; 6. Citizens, two- 
and-two. 

The most important document with which the name of Gen. 
Blackshear was connected during the session was a response to the 
special message of Gov. Troup, stating the rights of Georgia to the 
lands occupied by the Indians within her chartered limits, and 
insisting that the General Government should be urged, by every 
possible means, to extinguish the Indian possessory title at the 
earliest moment, under the compact of 1802. 

P. 278. Mr. Blackshear, from the Joint Committee on the State of the 
Republic, made the following report : — 

The Committee on the State of the Republic, to whom was referred the 
communication of his Excellency the Governer on the subject of the ex- 
tinguishment of Indian claims to the lands within the territorial limits of 
Georgia, beg leave to report, — 

That they have derived much gratification from the perusal of this 
interesting document. It presents to them an unequivocal manifestation 
of the disposition of the Executive to sustain the just rights of the State 
on the important subject of the extension of her jurisdictional limits, with 
a firmness which is tempered by discretion, aud a zeal which is guided by 
intelligence, — a disposition to which, in the unanimous opinion of this 
committee, every suggestion of duty and every feeling of honorable pride 
on the part of this Legislature will be accordant and responsive. 

The committee do not deem it necessary, in this report, to enter into a 
minute examination of the luminous exposition of the rights of this State 
which is contained in the communication of his Excellency the Governor. 
Adopting it, as they do, unanimously and in its whole extent, they be- 
lieve they will best perform the duty which is assigned them by recom- 
mending that an address be presented to the President of the United 
States, based on the principles and fortified by the arguments of the com- 
munication. They ask leave, therefore, to report the following memorial 
and resolution. 

Here follows a memorial to the President of the United States, 
from which the following is an extract : — 

In recurring to the articles of agreement and cession entered into 
between the commissioners of the United States and of Georgia, on the 
twenty-fourth day of April, 1802, these memorialists find a stipulation 
that the United States shall, as soon as may be, extinguish the Indian 
title to all the lands within the State of Georgia. This stipulation was 
not gratuitous on the part of the Government of the Union, but was in 
consideration of the surrender by the State of Georgia of a territory suf- 
ficiently valuable and extensive to constitute two independent and powerful 
members of the Federal compact. The motive to this surrender cannot 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 383 

be misunderstood. In consenting thus to restrict her right of soil and her 
sovereignty, Georgia looked, with the confidence which she has always 
reposed in the plighted faith of the Union, to the prompt extinguishment 
of the Indian title to all the lands within her remaining limits, and the 
speedy settlement of her then, and still, vacant territory. Limiting her 
ultimate views of extensive empire, she had hoped by such limitation to 
escape from the helplessness of a protracted infancy, and, marching in 
quick time to the accomplishment of her destinies, to have seen her laws 
and her sovereignty coextensive with the limits of the territory within 
which she had consented to confine herself. Twenty-one years have 
passed away, and she is still destined to experience the disappointment of 
her hopes. She has witnessed, during this period, the extension of the 
Union, the multiplication of members of the Federal Republic, by repeated 
acquisitions of territory, while she is still doomed to have a long line 
of frontier exposed to the predatory incursions of the savage, and the 
lives of her citizens who dwell there, to his subtle and relentless vengeance. 

The report and resolution were unanimously agreed to by the 
Senate and in the same way concurred in by the House. 

Extracts might be multiplied from the journal of the Senate, 
showing the part Gen. Blackshear took in legislation, his motions 
of inquiry, his amendments to bills, and his reports from committee. 
He justly exercised great influence in the Legislature, and the 
wisest and most experienced minds w T ere glad to confer with him. 
He occasionally addressed the Senate, always to the point, and 
with a manner so positive and dignified, and a voice so clear and 
rich in expression, that he never failed to command the most per- 
fect attention. He was usually an observer of forms ; but on one 
well-known occasion he laid aside mere etiquette and gave way to 
his feelings. This was in 1818, when the two Houses had convened 
to elect a Senator in Congress. He rose, and confessed that it 
was not customary to advocate the claims of any candidate, 
beyond the simple announcement of his name, while assembled on 
joint-ballot ; but he would take the liberty of saying that the 
country needed a man of the highest qualifications, and such a man 
was John Forsyth, whose talents and patriotism all admired. He 
therefore proposed Mr. Forsyth to represent Georgia in the Senate 
of the United States, and he wanted him elected by a large vote. 
The scale was at once turned, and Mr. Forsyth was triumphantly 
elected. To Gen. Blackshear belonged the praise of first intro- 
ducing him, amid discouraging prospects, (in a party sense,) to that 
sphere in which he gained so much national renown. 

RESIGNATION AS BRIGADIER-GENERAL. 

Long before his commission as brigadier-general in 1812, Gen. 
Blackshear had made military tactics and the methods of fortifica- 



384 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

tion and defence a subject of earnest study. He understood well 
how to employ his command in the field, in presence of the enemy, 
though, beyond a few skirmishes with the Indians, he never had 
the opportunity of leading his troops into battle. He was a man 
of quiet chivalry, and never compromised with danger where duty 
called. He was a good disciplinarian, rather stern in enforcing 
system, and had his reviews conducted properly as often as the 
law required. Whether it be possible for any inspector, adjutant, 
or even major-general, to improve the militia into a warlike corps, 
has yet to be tested. Whatever could be done by the best drill- 
officers, and the most persevering practice, Gen. Blackshear ac- 
complished in his brigade. 

The author claims the thanks of the reader in advance for ex- 
hibiting a document which has never been excelled in delicacy of 
expression and force of compliment ; and no one but the writer 
of it could produce its equal : — 

Executive Department, Milledgeville, February 21, 1820. 

Dear Sir : — It would be ungenerous, after you had filled so many 
offices of trust and honor, civil and military, and all to the satisfaction and 
advantage of your country, to deny to you, in the decline of life, the 
privilege to retire from your military command. I regret, notwith- 
standing, that the infirmities of age, or any other cause, should deprive the 
public of your usefulness in any sphere of action. It is known to me 
that, if your strength has departed, your patriotism remains unquenched, 
and that in any peril or danger threatened to the country we can still 
confidently appeal to that first of virtues which has never failed you in the 
worst of times, and which you will carry with you to the grave. Your 
resignation is accepted, with a sincere hope that many days of happiness 
remain for you. G. M. Troup. 

Brig. Gen. Blackshear. 

The author begs to publish in this connection a letter he received 
from Gov. Troup, to whom he had addressed one of his circulars 
to collect matter for the biographies in this work, and also a pri- 
vate letter requesting him to furnish, at his leisure, such outlines, 
facts, and suggestions about the public men of Georgia, within the 
range of his extensive acquaintance, as he might think proper. 
The following is the brief yet courteous reply, and the author 
regrets that it is the only communication he ever received from 
that distinguished citizen on the subject : — 

Laurens County, September 4, 1851. 
Dear Sir: — My health is very feeble, and I cannot promise aught; 
but it would give me great pleasure to be able hereafter to oblige and 
serve you. Very respectfully, 

G. M. Troup. 
Stephen F. Miller, Esq. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 38 



c 



His resignation only completed what lie had otherwise done in 
part, — his withdrawal from public life altogether, at the close of the 
session of the Legislature for 1825. Nor did Gen. Blackshear per- 
mit his name to be used for any public trust afterward, except 

as a 

PRESIDENTIAL ELECTOR. 

In 1800, he was in the Electoral College of Georgia, and voted 
for Mr. Jefferson as President, and Aaron Burr as Vice-President, 
such being the ticket of the Republican party. Twenty-eight 
years afterward, he was also an elector, and voted, in 1828, for 
Andrew Jackson for President, and probably for William Smith, of 
South Carolina, for Vice-President, of the United States, — thus 
having the singular fortune of aiding to displace both the elder and 
the younger .Adams from the Executive of the Union, each at 
the end^of one term. Mr. Calhoun was the regular candidate for 
the Vice-Presidency on the Jackson ticket in 1828 ; but, as a personal 
feud existed between that gentleman and the Hon. William H. 
Crawford, growing out of the Presidential contest of 1824, the 
State of Georgia, which adhered to Mr. Crawford, refused to sup- 
port his adversary, only two of the electors voting for Mr. Calhoun. 
The names of the Presidential electors in 1828 were David Black- 
shear, of Laurens; Augustin S. Clayton, of Clark ; Solomon Graves, 
of Newton ; John J. Maxwell, of Bryan ; John Moore, of Oglethorpe ; 
Oliver Porter, of Greene ; Robert R. Reid, of Richmond ; John Ru- 
therford, of Baldwin, and William Terrell, of Hancock. 

Gen. Blackshear was also a Presidential elector in 1832, for the 
last time. The names of his colleagues appear in the following 
message of the Governor, taken from the Senate Journal, p. 161 : — 

Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, December 3, 1832. 
I have deemed it proper to communicate to the General Assembly that 
the persons elected electors of President and Vice-President of the United 
States — viz., Beverly Allen, Elias Beall, David Blackshear, William B. 
Bulloch, John Floyd, Seaton Grantland, Hines Holt, Henry Jackson, 
William Terrell, John Whitehead, and Wilson Williams, Esqs. — are in 
attendance at the seat of Government, and have signified their acceptance 
of the appointment conferred upon them by the people. 

Wilson Lumpkin. 

CONDUCT OF JUDGE FORT. 

By reference to No. 130 of annexed papers will be seen a letter 

from Col. Seaborn Jones to Gen. Blackshear, dated January 23, 

1825, relative to a proceeding in chancery, at the instance of 

Archibald B. Ridley and wife, against Joseph Blackshear, executor 

of Elijah Blackshear, deceased, to recover a large estate. In a 
Vol. I.— 25 



386 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

note to that letter, the author has made allusion to certain charges 
preferred by Col. Joseph Blackshear against Judge Fort, who pre- 
sided on the trial of the case, and whose decisions were deemed 
erroneous, either from improper motives, or incapacity resulting 
from habitual intoxication. As the brothers were strongly united, 
all men of large property and of high character, the case natu- 
rally enlisted a great deal of public attention, and gave rise to 
parties for and against a recovery. After final decree had, the 
Clerk* of Laurens Superior Court refused to issue an execution ; 
and this brought upon him a mandamus, which Judge Fort made 
absolute. The execution was then issued. Col. Blackshear, who 
thought himself aggrieved, laid a memorial before the Legislature 
at its session in 1827, the proceedings on which are noticed of 
record: — 

\From the Journal of the House of Representatives.^ 

P. 1G8. The Speaker laid before the House a communication from 
Joseph Blackshear in relation to the conduct of Judge Fort, which was 
read aud referred to a select committee, consisting of Messrs. Dougherty, 
Burnside, Haynes, Saffold, Stiles, Copp, aud Davis. 

Mr. Dougherty offered a resolution, which was read, amended, and 
agreed to, as follows, — to wit : 

Resolved, That the select committee to whom was referred the commu- 
nication of Joseph Blackshear, preferring charges against Moses Fort, 
Judge of the Southern circuit, be authorized and empowered to send for 
persons and papers to investigate said charges, and that said committee 
notify said judge of the investigation, and furnish him with a copy of the 
charges. 

P. 213. On motion of Mr. Haynes, — 

Resolved, That the select committee to whom was referred the charges 
against the Hon. Moses Fort be exempt from the services of this House 
pending the investigation of said charges. 

P. 283. Mr. Dougherty, from the select committee to which was 
referred the charges preferred by Joseph Blackshear against Moses Fort, 
Judge of the Southern circuit in this State, presented a report, which 
was read. 

On motion of Mr. Holt, of Richmond, two hundred and ten copies of 
said report, and the evidence accompanying, were ordered to be printed 
for the use of the General Assembly 

On motion of Mr. Dougherty, — 

Resolved, That the witnesses subpoenaed by the committee to investi- 
gate the conduct of Judge Fort be discharged from their attendance on 
said committee. 

Mr. Dougherty laid on the table the following : — 

The counsel for Judge Fort, whose conduct has been arraigned before 
this House, having been requested to be heard in his defence : 



* The late Dr. Thomas Moore, a high-toned gentleman of the olden time, who 
in his youth attended the levees of President Washington in Philadelphia. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 387 

Therefore^ Resolved, That the counsel for Judge Fort be admitted 
when the subject shall come before the House for consideration. 

P. 326. On motion of Mr. Burnside, — 

Resolved, That the messenger of this House be directed to give notice 
to Moses Fort, Esq., Judge of the Southern circuit, that the House of 
Representatives will, on to-morrow at ten o'clock, proceed to the considera- 
tion of the address and resolution relative to his removal from office. 

P. 384. The House agreed to take up the report of the select com- 
mittee to whom was referred the charges preferred by Joseph Blackshear 
against Moses Fort, the Judge of the Southern Circuit in this State; 
when Moses Fort, Esq., judge of said court, appeared at the bar of the 
House, attended by John A. Heard, Samuel Rockwell, Robert Augustus 
Beall, and Zachariah B. Hargrove, Esquires, as his counsel, and the said 
report being read, as follows : — 

The select committee to whom was referred the charges preferred by 
Joseph Blackshear against Moses Fort, the Judge of the Southern circuit 
in this State, report 

That they entered upon the discharge of the duty devolving upon them 
hy said reference under a deep sense of the duty which they owed to the 
rights of the person whose conduct was impeached, on the one hand, and 
the rights of the citizens of this State, on the other; that, under these 
feelings, they deemed it their duty to allow of the freest investigation on 
the one side and the most ample means of defence on the other. The 
more effectually to obtain these ends, your committee considered that they 
had the power (and accordingly exercised it) of permitting both the ac- 
cuser and the accused to appear before them by counsel. Both parties 
availed themselves of this privilege, and thereby enjoyed the rights, to 
the fullest extent, of cross- and re-examining all the witnesses who were 
brought before the committee. The evidence thus taken before the com- 
mittee has been committed to paper and herewith submitted to the House, 
with the papers therein referred to. From the evidence thus submitted, 
your committee feel themselves authorized to say that the first charge 
submitted — to wit : That the said Moses Fort "has been on the bench 
as judge so intoxicated, at repeated times and places, as to render him 
incapable and utterly incapacitated from performing the duties assigned 
him as judge" — has been substantially supported and proven. 

Much evidence has been submitted to your committee in support of the 
second charge, — to wit : That the said Moses Fort " has repeatedly de- 
cided causes in courts, (or some of them,) in and over which he presided, 
from base and unworthy, improper, partial, and corrupt motives." And 
although the evidence adduced to support this charge proves many acts 
of the said Moses Fort which might be deemed either illegal or improper, 
yet, in the opinion of your committee, it is not of that clear and positive 
nature which they have considered necessary to enable them to pronounce 
the motives of the said Moses Fort either improper, partial, or corrupt. 

In support of the third charge, very little evidence has been submitted 
to your committee other than an exemplification of the record of one 
case, (which was an indictment for assault with intent to murder,) which, 
in the opinion of your committee, cannot be considered sufficient to war- 
rant the conclusion that the judge was actuated by corrupt motives in 
making his decisions in this case. 

The fourth charge is in its nature more general, — to wit : That the 
said Moses Fort, '' from general intemperance and intoxication, is unlit 



388 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

and incapacitated from performing the duties of judge." Evidence in 
support of this charge consists of that produced to substantiate the first, 
connected with proof of the general habits of the said Moses Fort for 
intemperance. 

It will readily be perceived that the truth or falsity of this charge 
must depend upon the effect which a given degree of intemperance will 
or may have upon the mind and conduct of any individual ; and, though 
the whole evidence may not show an extravagant or continual use of 
ardent spirits by the said Moses Fort, yet, in the opinion of your com- 
mittee, it must have opposed a considerable barrier to the speedy and 
faithful administration of justice in the circuit over which he presides. 

Whatever difference of opinion may exist as to the disqualification of 
the judge, from intemperance, to perform the duties of his office, your 
committee are of opinion that all must agree that the evidence shows an 
habitual intemperance on the part of the judge as to prostrate the dignity 
of his office and materially to interrupt the discharge of his official duties. 
With these views of the subject and the evidence, your committee feel 
themselves constrained to offer the following resolution : — 

Resolved, by the Senate, and House of Re^iresentatives, two-thirds of 
each branch concurring, That the Governor be, and he is hereby, author- 
ized and required forthwith to remove from office Moses Fort, the present 
judge of the Southern circuit in this State. 

After the counsel for the judge had concluded their argument in his 
behalf, they retired, accompanied by the judge, after which considerable 
discussion arose in the House, when, on motion to agree to said report, 
the yeas and nays were required to be recorded, and are, — Yeas, 88 ; 
Nays, 37. 

The Speaker announced the result, and declared the report and resolu- 
tion agreed to by a majority of two-thirds, as required by the Constitution, 
and the clerk was directed forthwith to carry said report and resolution to 
the Senate. 

In Senate, Journal, 290. 

The President laid before the Senate the following communication : — 

Milledgeville, December 21, 1827. 
TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE. 

Sir : — The resolution of the House of Representatives in relation to my 
removal from office having been conveyed to the Senate, I beg leave to 
request that I may be heard by counsel in my defence after the report 
and the evidence shall have been read, at such time as the Senate may 
designate. If in accordance with the views of the Senate, I would respect- 
fully ask an indulgence of reasonable time for preparation and consultation 
with my counsel until Monday morning. 

Very respectfully, 

Moses Fort. 

On motion of Mr. Sellers, — 

Resolved, That Moses Fort, Judge of the Superior Courts of the South- 
ern circuit, be permitted to appear by attorney in his defence of the 
charges preferred against him by Joseph Blackshear, within the bar of 
the Senate, to-morrow morning at ten o'clock. 

P. 293. The President laid before the Senate the following communica- 
tion from Judge Fort : — 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 389 

Milledgeville, December 22, 1827. 
TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE. 

Sir : — Although the liberality of the honorable body over which you 
preside granted me the right of being heard in my defence by counsel, 
yet, considering that every moment is precious to the Legislature on the 
eve of its close, and considering that the evidence is before the Senate, 
and that the argument of counsel would but serve to occupy the attention 
of the Senate without producing any other result than that of consuming- 
its time, I have determined to waive the right so freely granted; but 
asking the body over which you preside, collectively and individually, to 
consider, in making up* the determination, the source wheuce the accusa- 
tion proceeds, and the probable motives which have doubtless actuated 
my accuser in making it. It is also respectfully asked of the honorable 
body over which you preside, not to fix a precedent that may be hereafter 
viewed as depriving a citizen of the inestimable right of trial and defence 
by concurring in a course having all the effects of an impeachment with- 
out any of its justice. 

There is one other consideration which I desire to submit on the present 
occasion. It is this :— Notwithstanding much evidence has been collected 
in relation to the charges, yet not one of them has been sustained ; and, 
when taken in connection with the testimony the limited time allowed 
me enabled me to present, there exists much variety of opinion on the 
subject; and as to disqualification, there is no evidence upon which any 
reliance can be placed. If the administration of public justice has suf- 
fered through me, where are the complaints of the people against me ? 
There exist none. On the contrary, whenever any of the witnesses have 
been required to testify upon this subject, the opinion is uniform that I 
have presided as well as those who have gone before me. 

I have the honor to be your obedient servant, 

Moses Fort. 

The Senate took up so much of the luessage of the House of Represen- 
tatives yesterday as relates to the report of the select committee of the 
House to which was referred the charges preferred by Joseph Blackshear 
against Moses Fort, the Judge of the Southern circuit in this State : 

And on the question of concurring with the House, by a majority of 
two-thirds, in said report and accompanying resolution, the yeas and nays 
being required, it was determined in the negative, — Yeas, 89 ; Nays, 27. 

The honorable Senator* from Washington county was unanimously 
excused from voting on the report and resolution of the House relative 
to the removal of Judge Fort from office, in consequence of his relation- 
ship to one of the parties. 

Thus terminated the investigation. The author has no remarks 
either of praise or censure to indulge. Judge Fort was his towns- 
man, with whom his personal relations were agreeable, and Colonel 
Blackshear was his friend, whose hospitality he had enjoyed. The 



* Col. William A. Tennille, brother-in-law of the prosecutor, afterward Secre- 
tary of State, — a brave soldier vrho lost an arm fighting for his country. 



390 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

prosecutor and the accused are both in the grave ; and there let 
all differences repose. 

SOCIAL CORRESPONDENCE. 

From the long connection of Gen. Blackshear with public affairs, 
and his admitted wisdom and integrity, it is reasonable to presume 
that he both received and wrote many letters which, if collected, 
would prove a valuable acquisition to history. On applying to his 
family for leave to examine his papers, the author felt assured in 
his own mind that he would discover many letters from the old 
statesmen and leaders of Georgia, as well as from those of a later 
origin, out of which he could select such as were applicable to his 
biographies ; also that he would find complete sets of Legislative 
journals from 1795 to 1825, as a record which Gen. Blackshear 
had carefully preserved for his own reference, and as affording to 
his posterity the evidence of his public life, — the measures he sup* 
ported and those he opposed, as well as the business he introduced, 
his reports from committee, and other machinery of legislation at 
which he had taken a turn. But the search yielded little, com- 
paratively. With the exception of the Military Papers, which 
were in a bundle secured and marked by Gen. Blackshear himself, 
and the few other letters annexed to this memoir, nothing of any 
interest was found. 

Expressing his disappointment to the sons* of Gen. Blackshear, 
who assisted the author in the examination, they informed him 
that, after the death of their father and the neglect of the old 
family mansion, large quantities of his papers, even bushels of old 
letters and documents, were scattered in the garret, where they 
remained when the house was burnt, and all of them destroyed. 
Out of the wreck they found difficulty in recovering important 
title-papers. As for the printed journals and other pamphlets, 
Congressional speeches, Presidents' messages, and the like, they 
all shared a like fate, from carelessness of the overseer, who had 
ordered the trash in the yard to be fired too near the house. Had 
the collection of papers and documents been preserved as General 
Blackshear left it, the public would have gained much curious and 
useful information which is now lost forever, and the author would 
have been spared the occasion of expressing his regret. 

From the portion taken care of, not included under the military 



* Edward, Everard, and Elijah Blackshear. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 391 

head, the author presents an abstract, referring by number to the 
letters themselves for perusal at length : — 

No. 4. Letter from the Hon. James Jones, a Representative in 
Congress, relative to the yellow fever in Philadelphia, the removal 
of the public offices to New Jersey, flight of the physicians ; pros- 
pect of war with France ; jealousy of European powers ; good 
advice of President Washington, &c. September 4, 1798. 

No. 6. Letter from Gov. Jackson relative to the Indian disturb- 
ances on the Oconee ; improper conduct of certain white men in 
giving the Indians liquor ; the steps proper to be taken for its sup- 
pression ; taking up trespassing Indians as vagabonds ; difficulties 
to be avoided in obtaining Oconee lands, &c. June 18, 1799. 

No. 7. Letter from the Hon. James Jones, at Philadelphia ; 
slow action of Congress ; envoys to France to negotiate for peace ; 
victory of Massena over the Russians and Austrians in Switzer- 
land ; commissions to treat for western territory of Georgia, &c. 
December 12, 1799. 

No. 8. Letter from Hon. James Jones ; Congress tardy ; reduc- 
tion of the army ; abridging freedom of the press ; case of Jona- 
than Robbins, who was given up by a South Carolina judge to the 
British consul and hung in Jamaica ; President Adams interfering 
with the judiciary ; system of bankruptcy ; Gen. Lee's new militia 
bill ; proposed change in the Constitution ; American envoys 
arrived in France ; commission not full to treat for western terri- 
tory, &c. February 16, 1800. 

No. 9. Letter from Hon. James Jones ; conference about western 
territory ; clause to save Yazoo purchasers ; facts to be reported 
to Congress ; Indian title to be extinguished when Indians get 
ready, and money paid to Georgia ; Yazoo deposit to be trans- 
ferred to the United States Treasury ; prospect of treating with 
Indians for land in Ocmulgee, Fork and Tallasse country ; full 
power to commissioners to cede western territory, &c. September 
11, 1800. 

No. 10. Letter from Hon. Samuel Hammond, Representative in 
Congress ; Georgia militia claims ; unfavorable report of commit- 
tee ; Secretary of War recommends the claims ; proposed amend- 
ment to the Constitution, &c. December 23, 1803. 

No. 30. Letter from Ezekiel Park, recommending Dr. William 
W. Strain as hospital surgeon. October 13, 1814. 

No. 36. Letter from Bedney Franklin, introducing Dr. Abner 
Franklin, and presenting a copy of Buonaparte's Campaigns. De- 
cember 1, 1814. 



392 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

No. 115. Letter from Hon. Joel Crawford, a Representative in 
Congress ; enclosure from the Secretary of War ; official evasions ; 
names of captains to be given ; army rations. September 15, 
1818. 

No. 116. Letter from Gov. Rabun about finding of court-mar- 
tial ; case of hardship ; application for relief ; wishes to know the 
facts. June 30, 1819. 

No. 117. Letter to James Hamilton Blackshear, at college ; 
taking care of money ; advice of cousins Jefferson and Blackshear 
Bryan ; stand to the truth at all hazards ; avoid wicked company, 
and seek the respect of good people. May 14, 1821. 

No. 118. Letter to James H. Blackshear ; diligence in study ; 
laying foundation of character for life ; home anxieties ; returning 
in vacation ; compliments to Mr. Moore ; desire to hear about col- 
lege. October 4, 1821. 

No. 119. Letter from Col. Edward F. Tattnall, recommending 
Col. Daniell for general of first brigade ; soldier's character ; 
N. P. Bond for solicitor-general; factions in the State. October 
16, 1821. 

No. 120. Letter from Col. E. F. Tattnall, introducing Captain 
Hunter, Cashier of the Branch Bank of the United States in 
Savannah ; attentions due a stranger. November 8, 1821. 

No. 121. Note from Peter Crawford, Esq., Senator from Co- 
lumbia county, to accompany him to spend the Sabbath at the resi- 
dence of Col. Moughon. December 9, 1821. 

No. 122. Letter to James H. Blackshear ; urges him to write ; 
reciting privately; importance of solid knowledge, not merely to 
get ahead of class ; death of two slaves and injury to another. 
March 22, 1822. 

No. 123. Letter to J. H. Blackshear ; danger from measles at 
Athens, but disease everywhere ; Providence our only protec- 
tor; symptoms of asthma in Mrs. Blackshear; William indis- 
posed ; teachers' approval gratifying ; cherish harmony with 
cousins, and all schoolmates who conduct themselves properly; 
envy none ; avoid quarrels if possible ; when right, shrink not, 
regardless of consequences ; compliments to Dr. Waddel. April 
12, 1821. 

No. 124. Letter to J. H. Blackshear ; patience in study ; learn 
well as you go ; conforming to the rules of the college ; avoid all 
riots and the parties who commit them ; now is the time to prepare 
for future greatness ; a misstep will injure always ; highest freshet ; 
river top of mill-door; carried off fences and forty acres cotton 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 393 

planted ; sugarcane slow in coming up ; brown sugar last year 
superior ; prospect of fruit, &c. May 5, 1822. 

No. 125. Letter from Hon. John Elliott, Senator in Congress ; 
efforts of Mr. Calhoun's friends to Aveaken Mr. Crawford in New 
York ; seduced the Patriot newspaper over ; the great body of the 
Republicans for Mr. Crawford ; Connecticut vacillating ; Edwards 
left out of Congress in Illinois ; support in caucus from Maine, 
New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Vermont, cheering ; twenty 
votes counted on ; New York, 28 votes, certain ; calculation as to 
other States; Mr. Forsyth's exertions; Col. Troup's success; 
re-election to the Senate, &c. September 4, 1822. 

No. 126. Letter to J. H. Blackshear ; sending money, not to be 
wasted ; reasons for silence not sufficient ; better penmanship 
required ; improve the opportunity to learn and get the benefit of 
money expended ; leave college with credit, &c. February 26, 
1824. 

No. 127. Letter from Dr. Moses Waddel, President of Franklin 
College ; grateful for kind expressions ; acting the best he can ; 
praises James ; good standing in college and in town ; will be a 
good scholar, useful man, an honor to the institution, and a com- 
fort to his father ; request of Senatus Academicus to remain ; con- 
sents, though retirement and repose preferred ; did not solicit the 
office, &c. November 18, 1824. 

No. 128. Letter from Hon. Richard Henry Wilde, introducing 
George W. Crawford, Esq., a candidate for attorney-general; cha- 
racter, politics, and talents altogether unexceptionable. November 
27, 1824. 

No. 129. Letter from Dr. Waddel, securing Mr. Mitchell as a 
private tutor ; requests a visit to select a teacher, and for other 
purposes ; singular events of late known only to a few ; cannot 
write on the subject ; James doing well as usual. January 21, 
1825. 

No. 130. Letter from Col. Seaborn Jones ; lawsuit between 
Ridley and wife vs. Col. Blackshear ; facts stated ; defendant 
advised wrong ; must lose the property, $30,000 ; compromise 
offered, &c. January 23, 1825. 

No. 131. Letter from Hon. Richard Henry Wilde, Representa- 
tive in Congress, enclosing the vote of the House electing Mr. 
Adams President. February 9, 1825. 

No. 132. Letter from Hon. R. II. Wilde ; breakers ahead ; 
policy of the incoming administration ; claims for militia ser- 
vices; reputation of Government; emancipation; right of search ; 



394 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

Southern States the Ireland of the Union. February 20, 
1825. 

No. 133. Executive circular from Mirabeau B. Lamar, Go- 
vernor Troup's secretary, inviting the generals of divisions and 
brigades to pay their respects to General Lafayette. March 4, 
1825. 

No. 134. Letter from Henry King, introducing his brother, 
David R. King, in support of a claim before the Legislature. 
October 16, 1825. 

No. 135. Letter from Hon. C. B. Strong, expressive of his 
gratification at the victory of Gov. Troup over his opponent ; bull 
by the horns ; Gen. Gaines, &c. October 19, 1825. 

No. 136. Letter from Dr. James Perry, introducing a Repre- 
sentative from Tattnall county. November 2, 1825. 

No. 137. Letter from Hon. Charles Harris, offering himself as a 
candidate for Judge of the Court of Oyer and Terminer of Savan- 
nah. October 21, 1826. 

No. 138. Letter from Col. Richard A. Blount, touching the 
Oconee navigation; regrets Gen. Blackshear's leaving the Senate; 
Peter Crawford out ; the new Board of Internal Improvement, &c. 
October 20, 1826. 

No. 139. Letter from Peter Crawford, Esq. ; disgusted with 
Milledgeville legislating ; harness up again to serve constituents ; 
white men very uncertain ; prospects of the Troup party ; opposi- 
tion caucusing by a judge ; regrets to see so many running for 
Congress on the Troup side ; expects to see a half-dozen vaga- 
bonds of the Clarkites announced for Congress ; Mr. Monroe, 
successor of General Blackshear in the Senate ; faithful service ; 
following an old leader; state of the crops. July 8, 1828. 

140. Letter from Daniel Chandler, Esq., asking influence for 
his election as Solicitor-General of the Northern circuit. October 
10, 1831. 

Having glanced at all the correspondence attached to the me- 
moir, the author pleads guilty to the bad taste of introducing a 
letter written to himself by Gen. Blackshear, about thirty years 
ago. That paper is now before him. The youth to whom such 
kindly expressions were breathed, more to encourage than to flat- 
ter, is now about to finish the memoir of his revered correspondent 
in a spirit of justice, if not with ability. The author and James 
Hamilton Blackshear were devoted friends, both about the same 
age. As a guest for several days together in the sports of the 
chase and in convivial pastimes, sampling the excellent Avines and 



DA Yip BLACKSHEAR. 395 

rich drinks of the general, which no man knew better how to pre- 
pare for his friends, — in listening to his sage counsel, his racy 
anecdotes, and curious recollections, — the author can never cease 
to feel gratitude and a melancholy pleasure in reviving those scenes 
in his memory and in his heart. A few months ago he visited the 
old homestead. The dwelling was burnt down ; tall cotton-stalks 
grew in the yard ; the large old china-trees, planted by the general 
sixty years ago, had rotted from age. Nothing was green but a small 
live-oak, which came from an acorn he brought in his pocket from 
the coast at the close of the war in 1815, — an emblem of his own 
enduring character. 

But there were the graves ! General Blackshear and his wife 
slept side by side, and near him was old Peter Calloway, the once 
heroic youth who served with him in the Revolution. James 
Hamilton and William Thweatt, his two sons, who died in the meri- 
dian of life, and Mary Jane, the wife of Edward Jefferson Black- 
shear, reposed within a few feet. His nephew William L. Bush, 
well known to the author, was in the enclosure, far away from the 
home of his childhood. Several members of a French family, 
(Dessaubleaux,) who had been friends and neighbors, mingled their 
dust in this home of the dead. A half-dozen little graves told of 
angelic slumbers there. Dear old spot, hallowed by so many 
tender memories ! A voice, as if from the tomb, addresses the 

author : — 

Springfield, August 30, 1828. 

My dear Sir : — I received with pleasure your favor by the last mail. 
It is next to taking an esteemed friend and relative by the hand. 

With respect to your becoming a candidate for solicitor, if merit has 
any influence I should think your claim a good one. It is unnecessary 
for me to say that it is not a general rule in these times. I would recom- 
mend your urging your claim ; and, with such competitors as you men- 
tioned, I think those who know you cannot hesitate in their choice. 

You overrate my influence, as I shall have no more power than another 
humble individual. I shall, however, take pleasure in promoting your 
views where I think it will be of service to you. I am not certain that I 
shall be up, [at Milledgeville,] but intend to if I can, and can there say a 
word or two to my old friends. 

I am in fine health. James is in bed with the ague and fever; the rest 
are all well. We shall make half-crops in this quarter. I should be glad if 
you could come in and pay us a visit, and my old cousin, John Shine.* 
My nephew, William L. Bush, from near Wilmington, died at my house 
the 14th ult. I have nothing new or important. 

Accept the full assurance of my high esteem, D. Blackshear. 

Stephen F. Miller, Esq. 

* A soldier of the Revolution, — grandfather of the author. See a notice of his 
services in White's Historical Collections of Georgia, p. 65G. 



896 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

A circular addressed to Gen. Blackshear by the committee is 
here inserted in honor of Savannah and its public-spirited men : — 

Savannah, March 18, 1825. 

Sir : — It lias been resolved by the citizens of Savannah to erect monu- 
ments to the memory of Generals Greene and Pulaski. The occasion of 
Gen. Lafayette's visit has been selected as the most fit time for laying the 
corner-stones of these monuments. The lively interest which this great 
and good man has evinced in all parts of our country in the fame of his 
brothers in arms is an assurance that this tribute to the valor and virtues 
of two of the heroes of the Revolution will be an occasion of joy and 
gladness to his generous heart, and will form a pleasing and lasting asso- 
ciation in the mind of our venerable guest with his future recollections of 
the State of Georgia. 

The characters and services of the brave commanders to whose memo- 
ries we are about to pay these tributes of veneration are known to you. 
Their names are recorded in the history of our republic ; their deeds in 
arms were the pride of their compatriots and the glory of our country ; 
the value of their services demands from posterity the tribute of their 
gratitude. We therefore invite our fellow-citizens throughout the State 
to co-operate with us in this work of duty, that the State of Georgia may 
give another example to the world that republics are not unmindful of the 
obligations which they owe both to the living and the dead. 

It was before the ramparts of Savannah that Pulaski fell on the field of 
glory, and here General Greene was buried. It is therefore with peculiar 
propriety that two of the most conspicuous squares of this city have been 
selected for the sites of these monuments. 

It is proposed to complete these monuments in a style corresponding 
in simplicity and durability with our republican principles, and to make 
them the common property of every citizen. Hence, it has been deter- 
mined to limit the subscription to two dollars, in order to enable every 
person to enroll his name on this list of Revolutionary gratitude. Those 
who may wish to contribute more can do so, and their names will be 
noticed as making special donations. 

The names of the subscribers will be engrossed on duplicate rolls of 
parchment, one of which will be deposited in each monument, secured in 
the most perfect manner. 

Your zealous co-operation in this patriotic undertaking is solicited with 
great confidence. The moneys that may be subscribed you are requested 
to collect and pay over to the cashier of either of the branches of the 
Bank of the State of Georgia, or either of the branches of the Bank of 
Darien, who will thereafter be directed to transmit the money to Anthony 
Porter, Esq., Cashier of the Bank of the State of Georgia, at Savannah, 
subject to the order of Joseph V. Bevan, Secretary and Treasurer of the 
Greene and Pulaski Monument Committee. 

John Stephens, S. B. Parkman, 

John Shellman, Anthony Porter, 

William B. Bulloch, A. B. Fannin, 

James Bond Read, M. Myers, 

Richard W. Habersham, William P. Marshall, 

Alexander Telfair, James P. Screven. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 397 

FAMILY RECORD. 

It is deemed proper to give a record which will at least prove 
interesting to the kindred and the more immediate friends of the 
family. 

David Blackshear and Fanny Hamilton were married in Han- 
cock county, December 2, 1802. Their children were, — 

1. Mary Hamilton, born December 1, 1803, and died in 
infancy. 

2. James Hamilton, born November 4, 1805 ; married Caro- 
line E. L., daughter of Gen. John Floyd, July 2, 1828. He 
represented the county of Laurens several times in the Legisla- 
ture, was major of battalion, and died February 23, 1845, leaving 
a widow and two daughters. 

3. William Thweatt, born November 14, 1807, and died August 
13, 1838. 

4. Edward Jefferson, born June 21, 1810 ; married Mary Jane, 
daughter of Col. James J. Pittman, of Mariana, Florida. She died 
June 20, 1852, leaving a daughter and three sons. E. J. Blackshear 
was several years a member of the Senate from Laurens county, 
and a justice of the Inferior Court. 

5. Ann Eliza, born April 25, 1812, and died in infancy. 

6. Eliza Ann, born December 26, 1813, and died in infancy. 

7. David, born February 26, 1816 ; married Susan E., daughter 
of Edward Bryan, of Florida, August 14, 1845. 

8. Everard Hamilton, born June 19, 1818 ; married Isabella 
Maria C, daughter of Col. Everard Hamilton, of Savannah, Octo- 
ber 10, 1844. 

9. Joseph John Floyd, born October 2, 1821. 

10. Elijah Francks, born September 26, 1822 ; married Mary 
Ann L., daughter of Colonel Everard Hamilton, October 16, 
1845. 

11. John Duke Blackshear, born January 14, 1824, and died at 
the age of one year. 

It will be seen that the three daughters of Gen. Blackshear, and 
one son, died in their infancy. Seven sons survived him, two of 
whom have since died. 

Edward Jefferson Blackshear, Everard Hamilton Blackshear, 
and Elijah Francks Blackshear all reside on the paternal estate, 
within a few miles of each other, the settlement provided for them 
being about four thousand acres, to which they have added by 
purchase. David Blackshear resides in Florida, and Joseph John 
Floyd Blackshear has established a plantation in Texas, with part 



398 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

of his own force and part of the force of his brothers Everard and 
Elijah, retaining an interest in their planting-operations in Laurens. 
They act together in great harmony, and all of them are prudent 
managers, steadily increasing their property, and are upright, use- 
ful citizens. 

Mrs. Blackshear, the general's wife, was born January 22, 1781, 
and died February 28, 1824, aged forty-three years. 

HIS DEATH, JULY 4, 1837. 

The time has now arrived when the affairs of this world are no 
longer to hold dominion. He had performed the duties of life 
faithfully. At the age of seventy-three years, he could review the 
past and bear witness to the emptiness of fame. It had been his 
privilege to associate with the leading men of his day, and to leave 
the impress of his character in all the offices he had filled and upon 
the public mind. Serenely meditating on the future, he relied upon 
the truths of revelation for his comfort. His illness continued seve- 
ral weeks, in all which time he talked of death with the utmost 
composure, — said it had been a subject of reflection with him for 
years, and that his peace with God and with his fellow-men had 
been assured. In this frame of mind, General David Blackshear 
died on the 4th day of July, 1837. While the cannon was pealing 
forth its thunders in city and village throughout the Union, in cele- 
bration of the day which his youthful valor had assisted to render 
immortal, his spirit was passing from time to eternity. Gallant 
soldier, noble patriot, and sincere friend, Farewell ! 

HIS CHARACTER. 

Though his early education was imperfect, his mind was abun- 
dantly stored with knowledge of almost every description. He 
was acquainted with many of the sciences, especially those which 
related to agriculture, such as vegetable chemistry and the analysis 
of soils. He cultivated the grape extensively, and knew the process 
of fermentation, the saccharine matter to be added, the alcoholic 
principle, and the temperature for giving it the best body and 
flavor. He had the most approved instruments, and used them 
skilfully for this purpose. He often improved on other methods, by 
his own reasoning and experiments, on the large variety of grapes 
in his vineyard. 

Between Gen. Blackshear and the late Thomas McCall* (the 

* Brother to the author of McCall's History of Georgia. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 399 

best wine-grower of his day in the South) there existed a warm 
personal friendship. They mutually aided each other in the manu- 
facture of wine. Mr. McCall cultivated the grape on a much 
larger scale, and produced as elegant wines as any imported. In 
his message to the Legislature in 1827, Gov. Troup refers to him: — 

The introduction of a new culture may claim the countenance of Govern- 
ment, as well from its general utility as from the difficulties attending on 
it. Among the varieties which contribute to the comfort of man, that of 
the vine ranks with the first class, — a culture eminently promotive of the 
public health and the public morals. Our respectable fellow-citizen, 
Thomas McCall, of Laurens, distinguished alike for his science and 
philanthropy, has devoted many years to this culture, and his laudable 
zeal and patient industry give promise of ultimate success. A temporary 
and limited encouragement may insure it ; and good eifects would be seen 
eventually in a diversified cultivation, in an independence on foreigners 
for an article of great value, and in the gradual substitution in practice 
of a less for a more intoxicating beverage. If you coincide with me in 
the policy of extending a fostering hand to this subject of agriculture, 
the kind and degree of encouragement will be regulated by a sound dis- 
cretion. 

Besides his grapery of several acres, Gen. Blackshear had large 
orchards, from which he distilled apple and peach brandies of the 
purest kind. Nothing was neglected in the manufacture, from 
gathering the fruit to the dropping of the rectified spirits from the 
tube. He usually gave morning drams to his slaves ; and when- 
ever, from exposure to cold or water, they required a tonic, he 
ordered them to receive it from his cellar. It was often the case 
that in heavy work — raising houses, building mill-dams, and adjust- 
ing timbers — they Avere in a condition, as was then believed by 
most owners, to justify a little spirits for their health. The slaves 
at all events were grateful, and seemed to pursue their work more 
cheerfully. He never permitted them to have it in such quantity 
as to produce intoxication, and of course he saw nothing to regret 
from the custom. 

He also cultivated the cane, and made sugar and syrup more 
than enough for his own use. It was his rule to let his neighbors 
have whatever he could spare from his farm, — corn, bacon, flour, 
beef, sugar, syrup, rice, brandy, wine, wool, — lumber from his saw- 
mills, and all kinds of produce which he did not need for his own 
consumption. He never profited by scarcity and high prices in the 
market. His rates were just fairly remunerative for the labor 
bestowed. He never speculated on the necessities of people. All 
that came were supplied, if in his power. If they Avere able, he 
required payment w T ithin a reasonable time. The truly poor, who 



400 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

were pinched by hunger, received provisions gratis, — plenty for 
them and their little ones. Gen. Blackshear was a first-rate judge 
of human nature, and was not often deceived. To the honest and 
industrious he was ever a friend ; to the idle and dissolute he 
showed no favor, except rebuke, when they troubled him with their 
wants. Though obliging in his disposition, he adhered to certain 
rules which he adopted early in life : — 

1. Never to spend money before you get it. 

2. Never pay other people's debts. 

3. Never pay interest. 

Much is comprehended in these few words. They reveal the 
secret of prosperity, in violence often to the best sympathies. Gen. 
Blackshear was governed by principle in all his movements, — never 
by impulse. Hence his great success and influence. 

His hospitality was abundant and most agreeably dispensed. 
In his days, with lessons from the Revolution, through all ranks 
of society, in camp and in council, and until within the last twenty 
years, it was the prevailing custom — the social law — to offer wines 
and stronger drink to visitors, and to treat in public places. Gen. 
Blackshear kept up the usage. For those who did not relish wine, 
and refused to indulge higher, he had a drink of his own invention, 
which he called cider-royal, which was indeed good enough for 
kings. It was composed of brandy, sugar, and cider, — perhaps 
something else, — in such proportions as he had ascertained to form 
the most palatable and refreshing beverage. His sideboard was an 
ingredient of hospitality. He partook himself, but never to excess ; 
nor could any guest so far forget himself, even if inclined, as to 
become out of fix under his roof by too free a resort to the 
decanters. 

During their journeys on the circuit, and often in the intervals 
between courts, the judges and bar would spend their leisure time 
with Gen. Blackshear. The dignified Early, the jovial Strong, 
and other high functionaries who enjoined silence in court and held 
the multitude in awe by their stern authority, laid aside their official 
consequence, and shot ducks and angled for fish with as much glee 
as the boys who for the time-being were their guides and com- 
panions. The judges would go to the mill and wade upon the 
sheeting, or creep softly upon the dam, spearing the finny tribe or 
harpooning a turtle, with a perfect relish for the sport. After 
such achievements, the sideboard was called upon for its quota of 
applause. It was all right then, as public opinion had decreed it 
so. But a very decided change has since taken place. Sideboards, 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 401 

■wine, and brandy, and such old-fashioned luxuries, have been dis- 
pensed with, — certainly an improvement on the virtues of our 
predecessors. 

In politics, Gen. Blackshear belonged to the school of Jefferson, 
and was a great friend and adviser of Gov. Troup. He voted for 
him as a Representative to Congress in 1805, and for Governor in 
1821, 1823, and 1825. His influence in the Legislature exceeded 
perhaps that of any other member. An anecdote or two related 
of Judge Dooly will be in point. 

Before going on the bench, Col. Dooly had some military am- 
bition, and was a candidate for brigadier-general. When the 
election came on before the Legislature, Gen. Blackshear proposed 
some man whom he deemed worthy as an opposing candidate. 
Dooly was defeated, and charged his disgrace to Gen. Blackshear. 
Accosting a man from the country before a crowd at the hotel, 
Dooly asked him if he would do a little job for big pay ? The 
man said he had no objection, if he was able. Dooly remarked, 
" You are able, very able, — well qualified, no doubt, for the 
business." The countryman desired to know what it was. Dooly 
told him it was merely to curse. "Well," replied the man, " I can 
do a little of that in my own way." " Then, sir," remarked Dooly, 
"begin at once, and I will pay you a dollar to curse Gen. Black- 
shear one hour. Curse him loud on these steps ; curse him at the 
corners of the streets ; curse him in the Capitol-square ; curse him 
all over town ; curse him till your words give out, and then come 
to me for more. The cursing must be done this evening, or it will 
be too late. I am not strons; enough to curse on so big a scale, 
and must do it by deputy." The man excused himself, and thus 
the c2tmW/-operation failed, amid roars of merriment. 

At another time Judge Dooly noticed a gentleman very assiduous 
in his attentions to members of the Legislature for several days, 
when, taking him aside, he asked if he was a candidate. The 
reply being in the affirmative, Dooly inquired if Gen. Blackshear 
supported him. The candidate w r as unable to say, but thought 
from circumstances that the general would vote against him. 
" Then," said Dooly, "go home at once: save your tavern-bill 
and your feelings. If Gen. Blackshear is against you, you are 
beaten, — badly beaten. I was once a candidate, and Gen. Black- 
shear had me beaten by a dead man, who was no candidate !" 

Gen. Blackshear was frequently called to the President's chair 

while the Senate was organizing, and on other special occasions 

acted as chairman. His dignified manner, open and expressive 
Vol. I.- 26 



402 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

countenance, and his great experience in deliberative bodies, made 
his presence quite commanding. He very much resembled Dr. 
Franklin ; and the full-length portrait in the House of Representa- 
tives of the great philosopher affords a correct idea of Gen. Black- 
shear. In strong common sense, and in the ability to understand 
first principles, they were also alike. Dr. Franklin excelled all 
men of his day in conversational powers. Gen. Blackshear was 
eloquent in the simplicity and force with which he expressed him- 
self. He was a man of great natural abilities, and only wanted 
the cultivation and employments of Franklin to render his name 
as eminent in statesmanship, letters, and philosophy. 

At the Anti-Tariff Convention of 1832, Gen. Blackshear was 
chairman of the committee, which consisted of twenty other mem- 
bers, — Berrien, Forsyth, Cumming, Clayton, Cuthbert, Gamble, 
Reese, Spalding, Tait, Rockwell, Beall of Bibb, Taylor of Burke, 
Bailey, Warner, Dawson, Haynes, Gordon of Putnam, Clark of 
Henry, Janes, and Harris. 

Enough has been shown from public documents and from the 
history of his life to prove that Gen. Blackshear was a man of note 
and is worthy of a place among public benefactors. He did not, 
it is true, fill so wide a space as some ; but he acted his part with 
as much patriotism and integrity as the greatest. 

His old age was soothed by the presence of one who assisted in 
the Revolution to punish the murderers of his eldest brother, of 
which an account has been given in the early part of this memoir. 
After a separation of forty years, the Rev. Peter Calloway, stricken 
by domestic sorrows, came to the house of Gen. Blackshear, who 
embraced him with tears of joy. The reunion was pleasant to 
both. Mr. Calloway was invited to make Springfield his home. 
For several years he was a cherished inmate of the family, shared 
the best, was treated with the tenderness of a brother, and at length 
died under the general's roof. The same graveyard contains the 
dust of both. The commander of armies and the humble Baptist 
.preacher — the two friends in life, one successful and the other 
unfortunate — will continue to repose together until the trumpet of 
.the resurrection shall summon them to their final destiny. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 403 



[Papers referred to in Memoir.] 

I. GOV. IRWIN TO D. BLACKSHEAR. 

February 9, 1790. 
Dear Sir : — Time will not permit me to write you so fully as I could 
wish. But I am happy to hear of your spirited exertions on the present 
occasion, and trust you will still exert yourself in giving all assistance in 
your power to the frontiers. And rest assured that there shall be 
nothing lacking that is in the power of Government for their protection. 

I am, dear sir, with respect, yours, 

Jared Irwin. 

ii. — adjutant-general to major d. blackshear. 

Adjutant-General's Office, Greensboro, October 21, 1797. 

(General Orders.) 

In consequence of a law passed in Congress the 24th of June, 1797, 
and of a communication to his Excellency the Governor of Georgia from 
the Secretary of War, bearing date of the 1st August last past, for organ- 
izing, arming, and equipping, according to law, and holding in readiness 
to march at a moment's warning, our proportion of 80,000 militia,* officers 
included, being 1334 — 

You are therefore immediately to proceed in detailing to the proper 
officers in your brigade the following number of officers and men, and 
cause the same to be organized, armed, and equipped, according to law, 
and held in readiness to march at a moment's warning. 

You will accept any independent corps of cavalry, artillery, or in- 
fautry, as part of this detachment, provided they shall voluntarily engage 
in the service, — viz. : 1 lieutenant-colonel, 4 captains, 4 lieutenants, 4 en- 
signs, 16 sergeants, 16 corporals, 1 adjutant, 1 quartermaster, 1 pay- 
master, 1 surgeon, 1 surgeon's mate, 1 sergeant-major, 1 drum-major, 1 
life-major, 4 drummers, 4 fifes, and 256 privates. 

You will without delay report to me your progress, and on the state of 
this detachment. 

By the commander-in-chief's command, of Louisville, the 16th Octo- 
ber, 1797. Jonas Fauche, 

Adjutant- General. 

III. — MAJOR BLACKSHEAR TO f 

May 24, 1798. 

Sir : — Agreeably to general orders of the 9th of February, 1798, and 
the arrangements of the adjutant-general of the 14th of February, 1798, 
yourself, and adjutant of your battalion, will rendezvous at Sparta, on the 
3d of July next, uniformed, armed, and equipped, according to law, pro- 
vided with your commissions, there to perform such evolutions and other 
military exercise as the adjutant-general may direct. 

You will also cause to be held a review of your battalion at Sanders- 
ville on July 5th next, for the adjutant-general's inspection, as contem- 
plated in the fore-mentioned general orders, which you will find in the 

* For the expected war with France after the President's proclamation of neu- 
trally. Major D. Blackshear was brigade-inspector at the time, 
j- The address does not appear in the copy retained. 



404 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

Augusta Chronicle of the 17th of February, 1708, and to which you 
will have reference to conduct yourself accordingly in the orders you will 
issue. 

By the brigadier's command. D. Blackshear, 

Brigade-Major. 

IV. — JAMES JONES* TO D. BLACKSHEAR. 

Ship- Yard, September 4, 1798. 

Dear Sir : — After you left us, my indisposition increased and con- 
tinued pretty severe, so as entirely to confine me till about ten days ago. 
The moment I was able, I went to town, and have written to New York 
for the articles you want, through a very honest friend in town who deals 
there. In all probability, they will arrive in about four weeks from this, 
— say 1st October. Not meeting with a conveyance from Savannah, and 
being, besides, in a very great hurry to return home, I deferred writing 
you till now. 

The only news of consequence was that the city of Philadelphia has again 
been attacked with the yellow fever, and it made its first appearance in 
greater terror than at any former period. The public offices had all been 
removed to Trenton, New Jersey. The principal physicians had con- 
cluded to leave the place; and, of course, every person who can possibly 
get away will abandon a place that seems devoted to fall a victim to the 
most dreadful pestilence ever experienced in this New World. To contem- 
plate the emporium and most flourishing city of a great and rising nation, 
till lately exempt from most of the great national calamities which have 
desolated many parts of the Old World, now seriously threatened with a 
combination of two of the most awful afflictions that ever visited any 
land, is a melancholy and painful reflection, and, with the aid of a very 
small share of superstition, (or, perhaps, more justly, of religious confi- 
dence,) might induce us to consider and ascertaiu whether these dreadful 
visitations are the consequence of our own national pollution. The zealous 
advocates of the times would account for them on plain and familiar prin- 
ciples. They would say the malady is introduced by contagion from 
foreign intercourse; and this is probably the true cause. The other 
calamity — I mean war — they will not consent to rank in the same class. 
For my own part, I believe them to be the offspring of the same parent 
cause. 

The connections we have formed, and, in some instances, diligently cul- 
tivated, with European powers, could not fail to involve us in their desti- 
nies. That jealousy which is so inseparable from human nature, and 
which can scarcely tolerate an equal attention with others from a friend, 
can much less brook the slightest mark of particular favor. This passion 
is as prevalent in nations and their rulers as it is among individuals. 

These are barely remarks : I need not apply them. Present appear- 
ances prove the justice and goodness of the late President's advice to the 
United States on the propriety of avoiding foreign connections. 

I am, dear major, with esteem, your most obedient servant, 

James Jones. 



* Mr. Jones was often a member of the State Legislature from Chatham county, 
and -was elected a Representative in Congress in 1798. He died at Washington 
City, January 12, 1801. See a notice of him in White's Historical Collections, p. 
367. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 405 

V. MAJOR D. BLACKSHEAR TO COL. RUTHERFORD. 

May 21, 1799. 

Dear Sir : — Agreeably to orders from Brigadier-General Irwin of the 
20th inst., and from the adjutant-general in the Louisville Gazette of the 
19th of March, 1799, the field-officers of your regiment will meet at 
Sparta on the 23d of September next, uniformed and equipped, in order 
to receive such instruction of the discipline prescribed by Cougress as the 
adjutant-general may think proper to direct. 

You will also order all the commissioned officers of your regiment, 
together with the adjutant and first sergeant of each company, to appear 
at Sandersville on the 25th of September, armed with muskets and bayo- 
nets, — the commissioned officers to have their commissions, — in order to 
perform the evolutions prescribed by law. You will also call the whole 
of your regiment together at Sandersville, the 26th of September, by 
ten o'clock in the forenoon, well equipped. The officers commanding 
companies will come provided with exact rolls of the number of each 
grade enrolled in their respective districts or commands, in order that 
the regiment may be reviewed, inspected, and manoeuvred as the law 
directs. 

Believe me to be, respectfully, sir, your obedient servant, 

I). Blackshear, Brigade- Major. 

VI. — GOV. JACKSON TO D. BLACKSHEAR. 

Executive Department, Louisville, June 18, 1799. 

Sir : — I received your communication of the lGth instant, by Mr. 
Allen, this morning, and am sorry to learn the state of things in your 
quarter; but I yet hope there will be no occasion for violence on our 
side. 

Did the citizens who entice the Indians on this side the river know the 
injury they do to the reputation of the State, exclusive of that they occa- 
sion to their neighbors, I am certain they would desist from a practice 
neither warranted by the laws nor dictated by honesty, justice, or pru- 
dence. 

Supposing that I possess a gang of cattle which can feed better over the 
Oconee than on this side, but to gain permission for which I must accept 
of visits from the Indians and furnish them with spirituous liquors : is 
it proper that I should keep, or be allowed to keep, that gang over that 
river, in order to entice those Indians on this side, give them liquors, and, 
in a state of intoxication, lay all my neighbors open to their depredations, 
— and this, too, when my neighbors are in no ways interested in property 
over the river ? The settlement would be justified in taking harsh steps 
with the persons and cattle which should thus expose them to savage 
incursion. 

Mr. Allen has mentioned two persons guilty of this charge, — Captain 

, of Montgomery, and Mr. , at the Bluff. I confess myself 

surprised at Captain , after the recent occurrence which put him to 

so much trouble. It appears as if, after having drawn the vengeance of 
the Indians on his country, and risked an Indian war, with all its horrors, 
that way, (and that some were killed in consequence of his conduct is cer- 
tain,) that he is now determined to rouse the whites against the Indians, 

and bring on trouble that way. Mr. I am not acquainted with, 

but should be sorry if I should be driven to the necessity of informing Mr. 



406 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

Hawkins of those things, and of permitting the Indians taking off such 
gangs over the Oconee as may have been purposely driven over. 

The enclosed extract of a law now in force in this State will, however, 
be sufficient for you or any other magistrate to stop the practice of selling 
spirituous liquors to Indians, by taking up and binding over the persons 
guilty as therein pointed out. 

As to the Indians, I wish we could forbear as much as possible from 
commencing violence. At the same time, it is far from my wish or inten- 
tion to screen them or support them in any bad action. Should the 
horses not be found, (but which I hope they may be,) I shall make a posi- 
tive demand of them, and for that purpose request a particular descrip- 
tion of them by the owners, on oath, with the particulars of — — and 
conduct, and that of the Indians when last in. 

Should other Indians come into your settlement, and behave so as to 
require noticing, if you can procure any information, they are liable to 
be sent to gaol equally with whites for any crime they may be guilty of; 
and if, after being required to go over the river to their own side, they 
obstinately remain, they are liable to be apprehended by a warrant, under 
the hand of any magistrate, as vagabonds, under the act to amend the act 
for punishment of vagabonds, passed the 1st February, 1788. 

But I would much rather prefer the punishment of our own people, 
who are, in fact, the sole authors of those mischiefs by enticing them 
on this side the river. Should the worst of your fears, however, take 
place, you shall be supported. I only advise moderation and prudence on 
our side, to convince the Union that it is not the wish of the citizens of 
Georgia to commence hostility, or to precipitate the United States into an 
Indian war when they have every expectation of an European one, and 
which conduct, were we to commence, might so anger the Union as to 
prevent our obtaining the Oconee lands, which, I have reason to believe, is 
in a fair train. 

The extract of the law, as I before mentioned, will point out your powers 
and duty with those who draw the Indians for interested purposes to 
this side the river. 

I am, sir, your very obedient servant, 

James Jackson. 

vii. — james jones to d. blackshear. 

Philadelphia, December 12, 1799. 

Dear Major : — It is not the longest absence or most remote distance 
from an old friend that can make me forget him. When I saw you last, 
I recollect my promise to correspond with you constantly from this place. 
It is to prove I mean to fulfil that engagement, more than any interesting 
intelligence I can as yet afford you, that I now write. 

We have been almost two weeks in session without taking the sense of 
Congress on any question of the least anxiety. Nothing of importance 
has as yet been proposed. My hours pass away very heavily for want of 
employment, for I have not been accustomed to this kind of dull inactivity, 
and it does not agree with me. 

Our envoys to France have been gone now about six weeks ; and many 
people here of high rank and information believe their mission will pro- 
duce a full and speedy reconciliation with that nation. There are others, 
however, who seem to consider their embassy in a different view, and who 
do not entertain any hopes of their success. From every thing I can 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 407 

learn, I am fully of opinion we shall have peace. On this ground it is in 
contemplation to attempt a reduction of the army-establishment and of 
the expensive system of defence. It is generally believed the attempt 
will succeed. The disposition of the present Congress appears at present 
to be much more temperate than that of the late. There are in the 
majority many moderate men, who will not support any violent party 
measures, if any such should be proposed. The President tells us, although 
peace should be established with France, we must not relax in the system 
of defence ; that is to say, be it peace or be it war, we must have an 
army and navy. But I hope he will not find a majority of this Congress 
of that opinion. 

This day we have the accounts of a most important victory obtained by 
Massena over the Russians and Austrians in Switzerland. I enclose you 
a paper containing this and other information. 

I have not yet been able to attend to your business : that shall be the 
subject of my next. I hope to hear often from you. Please make known 
this information to your friends and- neighbors. We are in hourly ex- 
pectation of being informed of the appointment of commissioners by the 
President to treat with us for our western territory. His language to 
us when we made known our powers to him gives us a right to expect it. 
I am, dear sir, with real esteem, your most obedient servant, 

James Jones. 

viii. — james jones to d. blackshear. 

Philadelphia, February 1G, 1800. 

Dear Major : — In my former letter I told you that I would inform 
you in my next of the state of the business you requested of me to in- 
quire into here. I then thought confidently that I had brought on your 
memorandum on the subject. I am well assured I attended to it in 
assorting my papers at home just before I set out; but, to my surprise and 
mortification, I now find I must have left it in my desk in the hurry of 
business on leaving home. You must pardon this accident; and, if you 
receive this in season, write me immediately on the subject, and it 
will still be in time for me to inquire and bring you information on my 
return. 

Congress do business so tediously that not one act of consquence is 
passed, although we have been nearly three months in session. You will 
no doubt have seen in the newspapers the motion for reducing the army, 
and the debates thereon, or a part of them ; also the motion for repealing 

that part of the * law abridging the freedom of the press, and the 

fate of both these attempts. They were both unsuccessful. The first was 

lost by a majority of twenty votes; the last was once carried , and, on 

a motion to amend the resolution, was defeated by a counter-resolution. 
52 to 49. 

Some resolutions have lately been passed to inquire into the circumstances 
of Jonathan Robbins' case, the man who was given up by the judge in 
South Carolina to the British consul and afterward hung in Jamaica. 
It appears, by the papers laid before Congress by the President, that he 
did request and advise the judge to give the man up. It also appears 
that no question was made whether Robbins was an American or not. An 
interesting question now arises in Congress to be determined : — whether, by 

* Several words in this letter have been obliterated by the decay of the paper. 



408 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

the 27th article of the British treaty, an American citizen is liable to be 
delivered over to a foreign tribunal on a charge of having committed an 
offence on board a British ship or in the dominions of that kingdom, or 
whether that article of the treaty is to be construed to affect only British 
subjects who may seek refuge from justice in this country ? 

Another equally interesting question is whether the Executive is justi- 
fiable in throwing the weight of his advice and request into the scale on 
any judicial determination. Each of these points will no doubt require a 
full and temperate discussion, and, I hope, will be determined consistently 
with the liberties and safety of our fellow-citizens. 

There is an act before us for establishing a uniform system of bank- 
ruptcy, which I now think will pass. This was not my opinion till lately. 
I have serious apprehensions it will be the means of great fraud and 
abuses, and shall vote against it. Should it pass, I shall be happy to find 
my fears groundless on the operation of the law. 

There is also a new militia law before us, introduced by General Lee. 
It has been ordered to be printed; but it is not yet done, so that I can 
only give you some of the principal features of it. It divides the people 
into classes according to age. All under twenty-six form the first class : 
these are to be first called out in case of war, and the others are not to be 
called on so long as the first class are sufficient to defend the country. 
These young men are to be called out so many days in each year to — 
(defaced,) the other classes not at all. I do not expect this will pass, — 
at least, in its present shape. 

A resolution was last week laid on our table proposing an alteration in 
the Constitution to prevent judges from being appointed to any other offices 
than judicial. 

You must have heard of the wonderful revolution in the French Govern- 
ment. What is to be the fate of that long convulsed and distracted 
country is for time only to ascertain. May it arrive at a permanent and 
happy system of government, ought to be every good man's wish. We 
have not yet heard of the arrival of our envoys in France. Some believe 
that the late change is favorable to negotiation; others think differently. 
For my own part, with the opportunity I have to judge, I cannot suppose 
there is much doubt of an amicable adjustment, if, as I have been assured 
and believe, our envoys are seriously disposed to effect it. 

We have not yet had a meeting with the Commissioners of the United 
States on our land-business, although we have done all we could to obtain 
one. One of the commissioners has gone to England lately, and another 
, is appointed in his stead. We are now told we are to be favored with a 
meeting in a few days. We cannot promise ourselves any thing more at 
present than to obtain from those commissioners such proposals as may be 
likely to meet the approbation of our Assembly, who may in that case 
pass another act to accept them ; for we are informed, indirectly, that the 
terms in our act will not be acceded to. We shall, be assured, use every 
exertion to put this great subject in a train for completion as early as 
possible. 

We have a law respecting post-roads before us, and have got an office 
inserted in Sanclersville from Louisville. I would write you very often 
if you had a post now. Yours, truly, 

J. Jones. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 



409 



IX. — JAMES JONES TO D. BLACKSHEAR. 

Louisville, September 11, 1800. 

Dear Sir: — If I had not been prevented by the interdiction of inter- 
course from Savannah, I should some time since have visited you and 
some other friends in the western* part of the Statp, to explain fully the 
situation of our negotiation about the territory. It will be out of my 
power to perform that duty, and I will give you a statement of the busi- 
ness on paper. 

You will have seen, by my letters from Philadelphia, that nothing could 
be done under the act of our State or that of Congress. The commis- 
sioners had power only to receive our proposals, not to close with them. 
We had no power to make proposals other than those contained in the 
law. Thus our negotiations would have terminated at the beginning, had 
we not supposed it better to endeavor to enter upon such explanations as 
would tend to bring about the accomplishment of our object as early as 
possible. With this view, we had frequent interviews with the Commis- 
sioners of the United States, who at length told us that if their powers 
were enlarged they would make us positive proposals immediately, which 
we might lay before our Legislature for their determination. This we 
considered a desirable plan, and a clause was introduced in Senate author- 
izing the Commissioners to agree finally with us and accept a cession on 
such terms as they might think reasonable. This passed; but a clause 
was added to empower them to settle all claims of individuals to any of the 
land in question. This I opposed, and after a long debate it was struck 
out. Another clause, however, was inserted, to authorize them to report 
a statement of facts to Congress for their decision thereon. This I did 
not like, and told the House so ; but I thought it not so bad as the for- 
mer, and believed it best not to defeat the law on that account. It finally 
passed in this shape at the close of the session, — for the Senate had hung- 
up the bill in suspense for three weeks, on account of losing the former 
clause, which they so ardently wished to pass. 

The Commissioners of the United States now brought forward their 
proposals, which, to our surprise, were by no means such as we had a right 
from their conversation to expect. They proposed to extinguish the 
Indian claim to all our reserved lands at the expense of the United States, 
as soon as the Indians can be prevailed on to relinquish, and, further, to 
pay to Georgia a sum of money, to be hereafter agreed on, by way of price. 
This sum they intimated might be five hundred thousand dollars. But 
they propose to our Legislature to transfer the Yazoo deposit into the 
Treasury of the United States, and that the United States do indemnify 
the State against the purchasers. This we assured them we had no power 
to treat of, nor had the State Legislature power over it, nor, if they had, 
did we believe they would do any thing of the sort. They said the State 
might do it or not, as she pleased, but they thought it necessary to propose 
it. We told them it would be very obnoxious. They also speak of the 
claims against the lands, which will reduce the price to be paid to the 
State. We replied, we admit no claims whatever on the lands except 
those of the settlers, and that we would not, nor did we believe the State 
would, notice or admit of any claims whatever in the act of cession, when- 

* It is quite amusing now to hear of the Oconee as the ivcstern portion of 
Georgia. 



410 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

ever it should be made, and remonstrated against introducing that subject 
into the proposals. But they answered, we might avoid answering to that 
part of the proposals if we chose, but they deemed it their duty to suggest 
the claims. 

We discovered very soon a disposition in the commissioners to favor 
the purchasers if it Was possible, and used every means in our power to 
defeat them. They obtained from the President positive instructions 
to Col. Hawkins to use every exertion to bring the Indians to a treaty, 
for the purpose of obtaining the Oakmulgee Fork and Tallasee country, 
and authority for the Governor of the State to appoint an agent to co- 
operate with the agent of the United States in bringing about a dispo- 
sition in the Indians to relinquish their claims to those lands. This paper 
I enclosed to the Governor on my first arrival ; but the present distracted 
state of the Nation, owing to the wicked projects of Bowles and his abet- 
tors, forbid any attempt to hold a treaty at present; and Col. Hawkins has 
written the Governor to this effect. He also mentions he has received no 
instructions from the Government on the subject of a treaty. This is un- 
accountable, as we were assured the Secretary of War would enforce the 
instructions of the President, by writing in the most pressing manner 
to the agent on the subject. It may be possible that the copy which I 
brought on and furnished the Governor was intended to be forwarded 
to Col. Hawkins ; but this is an unusual way of sending despatches, and a 
very loose and uncertain one. In short, it is mysterious to me how this 
omission has happened. As it turns out, however, the State suffers no in- 
convenience from it, for it is obvious that nothing could be done at pre- 
sent with the Indians ; and, if a treaty were held, it is most likely the 
money which Congress have appropriated for it would be faithlessly ex- 
pended. I trust, however, that the influence of Bowles in the Nation is 
by this time at an end, and that the divisions and ferment among the In- 
dians will soon subside, and afford us a favorable opportunity of making- 
use of the means and power we have of acquiring the long-wished-for ex- 
tension of our limits. 

I am still of opinion, if our next Legislature are firmly attached to the 
principles which have prevailed for some years past, and take the proper 
measures to confirm and establish what has been done, we shall soon have 
the happiness to see harmony and tranquillity restored, with a confirmation 
of our just and necessary proceedings. It is not to be denied that there 
are many men of considerable rank and influence in the General Govern- 
ment deeply interested in the speculations which have been made on our 
territory, and who have used, and will use, every effort in their power to 
establish the grants : but I am consoled by the belief that there will be 
found enough of disinterested patriotism and public virtue in the National 
Legislature to defeat their towering projects. 

It will be necessary, if the Legislature shall think proper to pursue 
the object of a cession to the United States, to pass another law, giving 
full power to their commissioners to cede on such terms as they may think 
right. They may, and ought, at the same time to draw up a set of in- 
structions to their commissioners, prescribing the terms on which they 
were to cede; for if the terms are specified in the act there will be no 
room left for negotiation, and the other party have only to say yes or no. 
Whereas, on the other plan, mutual explanations might produce a fortunate 
termination of the business, which can hardly be expected from an abrupt 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 411 

declaration of the terms of cession in the law itself. Of this, however, 
the Legislature will judge and determine. 

I am, dear sir, your most obedient friend and servant, 

Jas. Jones. 

N.B. — The Secretary of War did not make his report on the claims of 
the militia till very late in the session. We endeavored, but in vain, to 
have it referred to a select committee. This could not be carried ; for it 
was contrary to the rule of the House. It was referred to the Committee 
of Claims ; and I frequently pressed that committee to investigate and report 
on this subject ; but it was then so late, and the committee so much 
thronged with other business, they could not act on it. The chairman 
has promised, in a letter to me, to take up the subject at the beginning of 
the nest session, when I shall press the matter with every exertion. 

Major Blackshear will please communicate this information to his and 
my friends and constituents in the frontier-counties, and oblige his obedie/it 
friend, J. Jones. 

X. — SAMUEL HAMMOND* TO D. BLACKSHEAR. 

• Washington City, December 23, 1S03. 

Dear, Sir : — I cover you herewith one of our papers of the day, which 
will communicate an idea of the proceedings of Congress. Of other news 
we are very barren here. 

The Committee on Claims have, contrary to my expectations, reported 
unfavorably upon our militia-claims, although the Secretary of War had 
made a favorable report, which was referred to them. I yet hope, as their 
report is bottomed upon an opinion directly opposite to all the documents 
before them, that we shall procure an order for payment whenever the 
report is acted upon. At present we have a very thin House; and, Gen. 
Meriwether being one of the members absent, we shall avoid acting upon 
the report for some time, in order for the absent members being again in 
their places. 

I have not heard any thing from our State Legislature except the ap- 
pointment of their State officers. I fear they will adjourn before they 
will have it in their power to act upon the resolutions which passed here, 
proposing amendments to the Constitution of the United States relative 
to the election of President and Vice-President. I think it a subject of 
very high importance, and would be very sorry if we should be compelled 
to go again to that election hoodwinked as heretofore. The lively recol- 
lection of the situation we were placed in at the last Presidential election 
produces my anxiety on the present occasion. 

Accept my best wishes for health and prosperity. With compliments 
of the season, I am, respectfully, 3'our fellow-citizen, 

S. Hammond. 

XI. — GOV. MITCHELL TO GEN. DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 

MlLLEDGEVILLE, AvtgUSt 4, 1813. 

Dear Sir : — From the representations I have received of the fears 
of our people on the frontier, under the present state of Indian hostility, I 

* Col. Hammond was an officer in the Revolution, was elected to Congress from 
Georgia in 1802, and, after filling various public employments under the General 
Government, served as Secretary of State of South Carolina. He died, September 
11, 1842, in the eighty-fifth year of his age. See his biography in White's Historical 
Collections, p. 624. 



412 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

have to request that you will proceed to that part of the frontier within 
your brigade, and adopt such measures as will afford some security to the 
inhabitants, until the troops now ordered to be got in readiness are 
marched to the attack of the Indians. 

You will report to me what you deem necessary in this respect, and 
have as much regard to economy as the nature of the case will admit. 

I am, dear sir, with great regard and esteem, your very obedient servant, 

D. B. Mitchell. 

XII. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO LT. COL. E. WIMBERLY. 

August 7, 1813. 
(General Orders.) 

Sir : — Agreeably to orders from his Excellency the Governor, of the 4th 
instant, you will proceed without delay to call out of your regiment one 
subaltern, one sergeant, one corporal, and fifteen privates to each of the 
three forts to be built on the frontier of your county, whose duty it will 
be to erect the said forts agreeable to the plan enclosed. You will relieve 
the said detachments once every week by the same number, until you re- 
ceive further orders. Those at Forts Telfair and Twiggs will be furnished 
with rations by Mr. Drury Williams, and Fort Jackson by Mr. William 
Jemison. Should any thing transpire to excite further alarms, you will 
communicate it to me without further delay. 

You will call on some expert captain, in whom you have confidence, to 
take command of the whole detachment, whose duty it will be to super- 
intend the aforesaid works and the discipline of the troops. 

I am, &c, D. Blackshear, 

Brigadier- General 2d Brigade bth Division. 

Note in the Order-Booh. — Similar orders were given to Col. Allen 
Tooke, of Pulaski county. Major James Taylor is appointed to furnish 
the men building the forts in said county. 

There were also similar orders given to Major Cawthorn, of Telfair 
county, who is authorized to make a contract to furnish the troops build- 
ing the forts on the frontier of that county. 

XIII. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO GOV. MITCHELL. 

Oconee, August 13, 1813. 

Sir : — I have just returned from my tour ou the frontier of my brigade, 
where I found the inhabitants in a high state of alarm, — an immense 
number of whom had left and fled to the interior. 

I proceeded to lay off three forts on the frontier of Twiggs county, (at 
about ten miles distant from each other,) about one hundred feet square, 
to have two block-houses, and enclosed with a stockade eight feet above 
ground, — and ordered one subaltern, a sergeant, a corporal, and fifteen 
privates to each, and a captain to command and superintend the buildings, 
and discipline of the men. 

In Pulaski, having a greater extent of frontier, I laid out four, to be 
built in the same manner as those in Twiggs, and the same number of 
men to each, commanded by a captain. 

I then proceeded to Telfair, and laid out three, ninety feet square, and 
ordered one sergeant, a corporal, and twelve privates to each, and a subal- 
tern to command the whole, to be relieved every ten days until further 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 413 

orders. I employed persons to furnish those men called out with meat, 
meal, and salt until some arrangement can be made. 

This plan of defence, with the addition of two horsemen to each fort to 
reconnoitre on the other side of the river as far as the next fort, I should 
deem sufficient even in time of actual danger, which protection will be 
a great inducement to those who have left their homes to return. Those 
in Telfair should have the same force as the other counties ; but that 
county is thinly inhabited, and the men called out are from the frontier- 
counties. 

Should this plan meet your Excellency's approbation, I shall imme- 
diately order men from Wilkinson and Laurens to relieve them ; and, if it 
should be deemed proper to reduce or augment the force thus ordered out, 
any other order your Excellency may think proper to give shall be at- 
tended to with the utmost promptness. My exertions, together with your 
letter to Col. Tooke reiterating that the frontier should be protected, had 
great effect in removing the apprehension of danger. Should there be any 
arms and ammunition to spare, those forts in Telfair county will stand in 
need of some. I am, &c, D. Blackshear, 

Brigadier- General. 

P.S. — I send this express by Mr. Maddux, by whom I can receive any 
communication you may think proper to make. D. B. 

XIV. — GOV. MITCHELL TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

MlLLEDGEVILLE, August 14, 1813. 

Sir : — Your letter of yesterday I have this moment received by Mr. 
Maddux express. I hope the inhabitants of the frontier in your brigade 
will be satisfied with the measures you have adopted, although I am fear- 
ful the expense will be very considerable. I shall rely upon the inhabitants 
in that quarter doing all they can to make the burden as light as pos- 
sible to the State in her present situation, when all her resources will be 
wanted to carry on an active campaign against the enemy. 

I have thought, since I saw you, that the best mode of securing the 
whole of our lower frontier will be to erect a fort and block-house on the 
middle ridge over the river, between that and the Ekau-fo-no-ko Swamp, 
and occupy it with a suitable garrison. This would save us the trouble 
and expense of garrisons for all the forts along our frontier, and would 
hold the Indians in complete check. The objection that it is Indian 
country can be easily obviated by obtaining the consent of the General 
Government, and the friendly Indians, if necessary. In the mean time, 
the posts you have marked out will keep our frontiers in quiet. 

I returned yesterday from a tour to Fort Hawkins, and from thence to 
Clinton, Monticello, and Eaton ton. Nothing new has occurred. I expect 
to issue an order for the march of the troops to the frontier next week. 

I am, with high consideration and respect, your very obedient servant, 

I). B. MlTCnELL. 

The express is in such haste to get back that I have not detained him 
an hour. 

XV. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO LT. COL. JOSEPH BLACKSHEAR. 

September 3, 1813. 
(Brigade Orders.) 

Sir : — It is but too manifest that a part of the militia of your county 
called out by the authority of the United States in the late expedition to 



414 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

Point Petre, cither from a disregard to the laws of their country, or from 
some other cause, failed to perform the duties required of them. I have 
therefore ordered the captains under whom they were liable to serve to 
report to you a list of all such defaulters as belong to your county, on the 
receipt of which you will order a regimental court of inquiry and have 
the said defaulters duly notified, and will proceed to the trial under the 
militia law of this State, the eighteenth section of which will completely 
reach their case. I am, &c., 

D. Blackshear, 

Brigadier- General. 

Similar orders were issued to Lieut. Cols. Wimberly, Cawley, Tooke, 
and Major Com't Cawthorn, of Telfair county. 

XVI. GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO COL. "WIMBERLY. 

Fort Twiggs, September 14, 1813. 

Sir : — The danger of an immediate invasion on the frontier appears to 
have subsided for the present. A detachment of troops having marched 
out to Flint River will, in my opinion, give security to the frontier. You 
will therefore discharge the men ordered out on the frontier of your 
county. I am, sir, &e., 

D. Blackshear, 

Brigadier- General. 

XVII. — MAJ. GEN. ADAMS TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Milledgeville, November 19, 1813. 
(Division Orders.) 

General orders of the 12th instant require me to raise, in the Fifth 
Division, one hundred and fifty men, seventy-five of whom, including 
non-commissioned officers, will be furnished from your brigade, to bo 
taken from the first class of militia. When a classification has taken 
place in conformity with general orders of the 19th day of September, 
1812, nine good horses must be furnished by the men of your brigade. 
You will take care to have attached to the privates and non-commissioned 
officers the proper and requisite captains and subalterns according to the 
number you detach from your command, — viz. : one captain, one lieu- 
tenant, and one ensign ; and you will cause a full and accurate return to 
be made to the commander-in-chief of this State, and to Major James 
Patton, of Twiggs county, with as little delay as possible. Should a 
voluntary tender of services of a sufficient number render detaching 
unnecessary, they should be accepted. 

You will view the frontier-line in your brigade, and select places for 
the erection of block-houses, and cause the necessary stockading to be laid 
off at proper and advantageous sites, and suitable distances between ten 
and twenty miles from each other. You will remember that block-houses 
have been erected in the counties of Twiggs, Pulaski, and Telfair. They 
should be retained if by alteration or repairing they can be made to 
answer the purpose of defence. As soon as the troops shall have volun- 
teered, or be detached, you will command them to march in equal ratios 
to the different places on the frontier-line which you will have designated 
and selected for the erection of block-houses. In distributing the number 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 415 

required from your command, you will exempt those companies which lie 
immediately on the frontier-line of each county from the performance of 
this duty, as their services may be wanted in case of an actual attack or 
invasion, for which service they should be held in constant readiness. 
The term of service of the troops called out under these orders will be 
sixty days, at the expiration of which time they will be discharged. 

Should the situation of the country require it at the expiration of that 
term, others will be ordered out to relieve them. 

By order of Major-General David Adams : 

James Woodruff, 

Aide-de-Camp. 

XVIII. — GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Milledgeville, December 2, 1813. 
Dear Sir : — Your two letters by Mr. Spear were safely delivered. 
The Legislature will adjourn the day after to-morrow, and you can readily 
perceive that I can only snatch a moment to address you. The pay-roll 
shall have an early attention. The service performed by you must be 
duly appreciated by the State. Nothing has occurred here worth men- 
tioning since you left us. 

I thank you for your ideas on the subject of defence along the route 
you have marked. I will take that subject into consideration as speedily 
as possible. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 

xix. gov. early to gen. blackshear. 

Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, January 4, 1814. 

Sir : — It has become necessary, in consequence of the disability of 
Brigadier-General Floyd to take the field, that some officer of the same 
rank should be detailed from the militia of this State to assume the com- 
mand of the army from Georgia, now in the service of the United States 
against the hostile Creek Indians. 

The task of doing this devolves upon me. In discharging a trust so 
important to the public interest, I shall look solely to the good of the ser- 
vice ; and, with this alone in view, I now tender you the command of the 
army. 

Permit me to believe that you will not hesitate a moment to accept it. 
The operations during the remainder of the campaign are intended to be 
entirely active. Preparations are already made for an immediate forward 
movement to the Tallapoosa River, and that movement will take place 
immediately on your taking the command. The time is short ; but, with 
every necessary preparation already made, much may be done by the close 
of the campaign. As the army is now only waiting for a commander, 
permit me to request that you will repair to this place without the least 
delay. Here you will receive your instructions from Major-General 
Pinckuey, and can repair forthwith to the scene of operations. 

I am, dear sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 

xx. — gen. blackshear to gov. early. 

Camp, ten miles south of Flint River, January 13, 1814. 
Sir : — I have just received your Excellency's despatch by the hand of 
Captain Lane, dated the 10th instant, with the enclosed copies of an order 



416 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

from Major-General Mcintosh, and the report from Col. Hawkins on 
which the order is forwarded for my again pursuing the object of my first 
expedition. 

I have remained silent on the subject of Col. Hawkins's numerous 
reports until silence on that subject would cease to be a virtue. Such 
ambiguous reports are calculated to keep the army bandied about without 
ever having it in the power of any commander to effect any thing. 

When 'I first arrived at Camp Hope the Miccasukie Indians were repre- 
sented as hostile, the British force at the Appalachicola few in number, 
the Red Sticks, or hostile Indians, at about three hundred. At Perry- 
man's, before I left that place, the Miccasukies were represented as 
friendly, the Seminoles hostile. I endeavored to find out who were the 
Semiuoles; but all the information on that subject was so vague and eva- 
sive, and contained so many ambiguities, — the same reports at different 
times explained differently, — the same Indian towns represented at dif- 
ferent times by different names, all calculated to mislead any officer who 
was credulous enough not to suspect some design. 

The day after I left Camp Hope I received an order from Gen. 
Mcintosh, grounded on another report, that fourteen thousand British 
troops were at the mouth of this river. Now there are a few, some 
Indians and some negroes, and the Miccasukies have been killing people 
in Wayne county; and, after all this, it is thought one battalion will be 
sufficient to conquer the whole of them with the co-operation of Col. 
Hawkins's seven hundred Indians, and that without artillery or rifles. 

If I had the planning of the expedition, (and which I deem of the first 
importance to Georgia,) I should ask a full regiment, exclusive of detach- 
ments to guard my depots, if Col. Hawkins and his seven hundred troops 
remained at Fort Mitchell ; but if they were to go and co-operate with 
me, I should want at least fifteen hundred effective men, besides officers. 
No calculation can be made on any advantage that can result from the 
colonel and his red force. If your Excellency will only turn to the letter 
which I saw published two or three weeks since, grounded on one of 
these reports, stating the receipt of a letter from Linebaugh, dated the 
15th of November, the contents of which were reported to Gen. Mcintosh 
about the 18th of December, stating the intelligence of the ten ships and 
fourteen thousand British at the mouth of the river, — if the date of that 
letter comports with the one I received, it will be seen that it was some- 
thing- more than a month from Linebaugh to Col. Hawkins, and was not 
communicated to Gen. Mcintosh until after I marched from Camp Hope. 

If Gen. Jackson or Gen. Mcintosh believe that they can induce Col. 
Hawkins and his red regiment to fight, why not march them to Mobile ? 
Why send them where they are not wanted ? I know of no other service 
they can or will render with me but to employ one-half my force to watch 
them, and to punish us if we should meet with a repulse; for I should 
calculate as certain on their turning on us and assisting the enemy in our 
destruction. But I am aware of them, and told Gen. Mcintosh that I 
did not want that force with me ; that if Barnett and about one hundred 
of his Indians were to go with me I should have no objection. 

A great number of my men are sick. Three have died since I crossed 
the Ocmulgee, three more like to die, about ninety sick and convalescent. 
A number deserted. I have about seven hundred effectives to guard my 
places of deposit which I must necessarily establish, to destroy all the hos- 
tile Indians, all the negroes, and all the British at the mouth of this river, 



DAVID BLACKSIIEAR. 417 

and at the same time keep an artful commander and seven hundred war- 
riors in check. Of my situation your Excellency may judge. If I can 
only obtain provisions, (and of which I have but little doubt if Captain 
Lane continues here,) I think we shall give a good account of ourselves 
before long. We shall have to beat meal a few days until the supplies 
can get on. I shall wait here to-day, and then return back to Flint Hiver, 
and there act as my orders and circumstances require. 

There is a six-pound piece of ordnance in Hartford which might be of 
great service to us if it was mounted and we had ball. 

On my arrival at this place I examined my ammunition, and find the 
powder fit for nothing but to burn in artillery or to practise with blank- 
cartridges. My cartridges are too small to load and prime, and some of 
them in bad condition. If your Excellency could let me have some powder 
of a good quality, I could go into action with much more confidence.* 



XXI. — FROM GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSIIEAR. 

MlLLEDGEVILLE, April 19, 1814. 

Dear Sir : — I have for some time forborne taking any definitive steps 
in relation to the contemplated road from Ocmulgee to St. Mary's, though 
we wish to have an understanding with Col. Hawkins which might prevent 
any thing unpleasant from arising between us and the friendly Indians. 
This understanding is now effected, and there is no obstacle remaining 
against proceeding immediately to the accomplishment of the object. 

To concert properly the arrangements and preparations, so that it may 
progress speedily and be executed judiciously, is a matter very desirable. 
For this purpose I wish to have with you a personal interview. If, there- 
fore, it be not too troublesome, I hope and request that you will, as early 
as may be convenient to you, come to this place. 

Major James Taylor has offered to furnish all supplies. 

I am, sir, with high regard, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 



XXII. — MAJOR-GENERAL ADAMS TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Head-Quarters, 15th Division G. M. 

Sir : — In pursuance of general orders from the commander-in-chief of 
the militia of this State, you will, immediately on the receipt of this 
order, cause the whole of the first class of the militia within your brigade 
to be assembled at the respective court-houses of the counties in which 
they reside, for the purpose of being trained and disciplined by their 
company-officers at least one day in every two weeks. 

It is to be understood that the troops (if not already done) are to be 
organized into companies until they are ordered to take the field, and that 
each company shall consist of one captain, one first lieutenant, one second 
lieutenant, one third lieutenant, one ensign, five sergeants, six corporals, 
two musicians, and one hundred privates. A muster-roll of each com- 



* The letters from Gen. Blackshear here published, to which no signature ia 
attached, are from the rough drafts in his handwriting, or from the Order-Book. 



418 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

pany, with the names alphabetically arranged, will be returned to me 
without delay. 

By order of Major-General Adams : 

William Cook, 

Aide-de- Camp. 

XXIII. GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSIIEAR. 

Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, July 16, 1814. 

Sir : — It has become my duty to appoint the general officers who are 
to command the first class of the militia of this State. There will be to 
the detachment one major-general and two brigadiers. Yourself and Gen. 
Floyd are fixed on as the brigadiers. Be pleased to inform me as early as 
possible whether you will accept. 

I am, with high regard, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 

xxiv. — gen. blacksiiear to gov. early. 

Oconee, July 20, 1814. 

Sir : — I tbis day received yours of the 16th inst., in which you have 
honored me with a tender of the command of one of the brigades composed 
of the first class of the militia of this State. I beg leave, therefore, to 
signify to your Excellency that I am at all times ready promptly to accept 
that or any other appointment you may think proper to confer on me in 
which it is in my power to serve my country. 

Believe me to be, with highest consideration, respect, and esjteem, sir, 
your Excellency's humble servant, 

David Blackshear, 
Brigadier- General. 

XXV. — FREDERICK FREEMAN TO GEN. BLACKSIIEAR. 

Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, August 25, 1814. 

Dear Sir: — I have just received your letter of this morning by Mr. 
Bane, and, as his Excellency is not now at the seat of Government, have 
thought proper to give you my opinion upon the subject to which it 
relates. 

We have certainly good reasons to calculate upon military operations 
from this quarter at no distant period; and it is equally certain that, in 
that event, the tools and camp-equipage spoken of will not be a burden to 
the troops. I therefore accord with you in the opinion that they had 
better be "retained for further public use j" for, although the General 
Government will be expected to furnish those articles, yet we know how 
deficient they have been on former occasions. At all events, no injury 
can result to the State by suspending the sale of them until you can hear 
from his Excellency upon the subject. He will be here on Monday 
next. 

Col. Hawkins has written to the Governor that the enemy at Appalachi- 
cola have ten vessels, — are using all stratagems in their power to deceive 
the Indians and unite them in their cause. They are training some 
Indians and negroes in military tactics for purposes hostile to us, telling 
them that seven nations have combined to put down France, and are now 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 419 

united arid determined to conquer America. All this is stuff to dupe the 
poor devils. 

Gen. Jackson has terminated his negotiations with the Creeks, (says 
Col. Hawkins.) The line of limits drawn from them is Coosa River 
(reserving two miles square for Fort Williams) to the falls seven miles 
abore Fort Jackson; thence across to the Tallapoosa at the mouth of 
Opickshee Creek ; thence up said creek ten miles ; thence to Chattahoo- 
chee, at the mouth of Sum-mo-chi-co Creek, and thence east to Georgia, 
(supposed to strike the Ocmulgee near the commencement of the new 
road cut out by your brother,) with an occasional reserve to accommodate 
the Kinnards. All below the line belongs to the United States. 

I have to beg you to excuse my scrawl, for I write in haste, as the 
bearer is waiting, and I expect you would like to know the facts I have 
written. 

For fear that you may not have seen the last general order relative to 
the organization of the first class, I send enclosed herewith a copy; and 
am, with high respect, 

Your most obedient humble servant, 

Fred. Freeman. 

N.B. — I am not a candidate, nor can I reconcile it to myself to be 
one ; but I shall be with you when you are called on to take the field, if 
upou my own expenses. 



XXVI. — GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, September 1, 1814. 

Sir : — I had the honor in due time to receive your letter accepting the 
appointment which had been tendered to you in the first class of militia 
ordered to be held in readiness for the field. 

When I determined on organizing this detachment, and on having them 
ready for service, I took the step from a conviction that the crisis rendered 
it necessary. I had not then received from the War Department any 
requisition or instructions on the subject. Two days after the date of my 
letter to you, a requisition from the War Department was received at this 
office for detaching, organizing, and holding in readiness three thousand 
five hundred militia for United States service. This requisition prescribes 
one major-general and two brigadiers. Our movements were, therefore, 
fortunately timed. The same major-general and brigadiers will command, 
should it alone be ordered into service. 

I have now, after immense difficulties arising from the law of the last 
Legislature, nearly completed the organization of the whole of the first 
class, save from Floyd's brigade. That brigade, for obvious reasons, is to 
remaiu untouched. In ten days at farthest, the quota, or the whole of 
the first class, will be completely ready to march. If the quota only is to 
be used, it can at once be ordered from such parts of the State as may 
be deemed most advisable. 

The elections for company and field officers I have ordered to be held 
at home. The former have all taken place; the latter will be over within 
ten days. I have thought it proper to communicate these matters to 
yourself and the other general officers appointed for this command. The 
distance of all of you from the seat of Government has deprived me of the 
benefit of your advice ; but I have proceeded with an honest zeal to do 



420 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

that which my best judgment prescribed. The issue I leave to Provi- 
dence and the courage of my countrymen. 

I have the honor to be, with high regard, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 



XXVII. — COL. ALLEN TOOKE TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Hartford, September 8, 1814. 

Sir : — I have this day received information from Christian Linebaugh, 
assistant agent, which contains alarming news ; and, in order that you may 
be fully acquainted with the same, I hereunto annex a copy of the official 
note received for your perusal : — 

"Chattahoochee Camp, near Fort Mitchell, September 4, 1814. 
" To the Inhabitants of Pulaski county and the town of Hartford. 

" It becomes my duty to make known to my fellow-citizens of Georgia 
that I have received information from down this river that the Seminole 
Indians are preparing to make an attack upon Hartford or this place. 
They have as yet not determined at which place they will strike first. If 
the information I have received is correct, Hartford, or that neighbor- 
hood, will be the first place they will aim for. I think it would be advi- 
sable for the inhabitants to be watchful, and have guards and spies out in 
that quarter, and be prepared for the events. In a short time we shall 
know how affairs will be with these Lower Indians. 

"I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

" Christian Linebaugh, 
u Principal Assistant- Agent for Indian Affairs 

Creek Nation." 

Sir, I have repeatedly laid letters before you which go to prove the 
foregoing facts: therefore I have to ask your pardon for intruding on you, 
which I hope you will grant. The foregoing has created great alarm 
among the inhabitants of this county. I have therefore ordered an 
ensign's command to Forts Pike, Greene, and Lawrence, and forty pri- 
vates, a lieutenant, two sergeants, and two corporals to Fort Mitchell, and 
one captain to take command of the whole. I am somewhat at a loss 
respecting the furnishing the provisions : therefore I hope you will instruct 
me immediately, as I have not laid the orders I have given before his 
Excellency the Governor. 

The first class of militia being organized and given up for the United 
States service, I have thought proper not to order or request them to per- 
form any service unless in case of invasion : therefore you will be so 
good as to instruct me whether or not I should order the first class into 
service. 

As we are very weak after deducting the first class, which is within 
your own knowledge, I hope you will as early as possible aid us in the 
protection of our defenceless frontier. 

I am your most obedient servant, 

Allen Tooke, 
Lieutenant- Colonel SQth Regiment 

Georgia Militia. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 421 

XXVIII. — GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Head-Quarters, Georgia, Milledgeville, September 17, 1814. 

(General Order.) 

It being represented to the commander-in-chief that the Indian frontier 
on the counties of Twiggs, Pulaski, and Telfair is menaced with depreda- 
tions from the hostile Indians, Brigadier-General Blackshear will order 
some prudent and judicious officer, with a patrol of cavalry, consisting of 
twenty privates, armed with guns, to explore the country between the 
Ocmulgee, opposite Hartford, and Flint Paver, at, below, and above the 
Hitchee Town. 

The object of the expedition is twofold : — first, to ascertain whether 
any hostile Indians are lurking in that quarter; secondly, to ascertain 
the best practicable route for a road from Hartford to Flint River, striking 
the latter below the mouth of We-cuy-wau Creek. The officer who shall 
be ordered on this service will be charged carefully to avoid any interrup- 
tion with friendly Indians. 

By order of the commander-in-chief: 

Anthony Porter, 
Secretary 

XXIX. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO CAPTAIN RICHARD THOMAS. 

Ocmulgee, September 19, 1814. 

Sir : — I am directed by the commander-in-chief of this State to order 
some prudent and judicious officer, with a patrol of cavalry, consistiug of 
twenty privates armed with guns, to explore the country between the Oc- 
mulgee, opposite Hartford, and Flint River, at, below, and above Hitchee 
Town. The object of the expedition is twofold : — first, to ascertain 
whether any hostile Indians are lurking in that quarter; second, to 
ascertain the best practicable route for a road from Hartford to Flint 
River, striking the latter below the mouth of We-cuy-wau Creek. 

I have, therefore, with the public interest alone in view, thought proper 
to call on yourself. You will with the least possible delay take the afore- 
said number of privates, who will furnish themselves with about six or 
seven days' provisions, and arms as above directed, and perforin the said 
tour of service ; and at the same time be careful to avoid any interruption 
with friendly Indians ; and immediately on your return make your report 
to the commander-in-chief. 

Believe me to be, with the highest consideration and respect, sir, your 
humble servant, D. Blackshear, 

Brigadier- General. 

XXX. — EZEKIEL PARK TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Greensboro, October 13, 1814. 

Sir : — It is anticipated that you will have the command of the new 
requisition of militia ordered into service by the United States from the 
State of Georgia. An old citizen of this place, (Dr. William W. Strain,) 
quite eminent in his profession and other public business, is desirous of 
promoting his country's cause by tendering his services in the direct line 
of his profession. Should it be in your power to confer upon him the 



422 MEMOIR OP GENERAL 

appointment of hospital-surgeon, you will highly gratify the solicitations 
of a number of his and your friends. 

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, 

E. Park. 



XXXI. — GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSIIEAR. 
Head-Quarters, Georgia, Milledgeville, October 21, 1814. 
(General Orders.) 

The commander-in-chief of the militia of this State, having been required 
by a letter from the Secretary of War, dated 25th September ultimo, to 
organize, arm, and equip two thousand five hundred of the militia of 
Georgia, detached conformably to the orders of the War Department of the 
4th of July last, to be held in readiness to join Major-General Jackson, 
now in the Western country near Mobile, and by a second letter, dated 
the 10th of October instant, to put in march as soon as practicable the 
said detachment, orders and directs the following-described regiments, or 
corps of the first class of militia, to be marched by their respective com- 
manders to Fort Hawkins, on the Ocmulgee lliver, by Monday, the 21st 
day of November ensuing, viz. : — 

The regiment detached from Major-General Daniel's division, com- 
manded by Col. David S. Booth, and the regiment commanded by Col. 
Ezckiel Wimberly, detached from Brigadier-General Blackshear's brigade, 
including the two companies of the first class from Brigadier-General 
Lee's brigade, in Jones county, and also a volunteer company of artillery 
commanded by Captain James Saffold, in Clinton, Jones county. 

The commanding officers of the foregoing detachments will direct the 
captains of companies to require of their men to provide themselves with 
provisions, and employ a baggage-wagon to accompany their several com- 
manders from the place of their march until they reach the rendezvous, 
for the purpose of transporting such articles of camping and cooking-uten- 
sils as may be provided by the men for their own comfort and convenience 
during the campaign. 

At Fort Hawkins they will be furnished with provisions by the United 
States Army Contractor. They will likewise be furnished at the same 
place with arms and accoutrements ; but it would be very desirable that 
all persons who can furnish themselves with rifles, shot-pouches, &c. to 
do so, as they might be formed into companies of riflemen after their arri- 
val at the rendezvous. 

The officers commanding regiments and companies are therefore directed 
and required to use their best endeavors to procure as many of this species 
of arms as possible, because of their great value in the mode of warfare 
which will in all likelihood be pursued by our enemy. Substitutes may 
be received, provided they be able-bodied, strong, and healthy men, by the 
captains at or before their arrival at the place of rendezvous, but not after 
their march from thence. 

Major-General John Mcintosh and Brigadier-General David Blackshear 
will command this detachment of militia. 

By order of the commander-in-chief: 

Daniel Newnan, 

Adjutant- General . 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 423 

XXXII. — FARISII CARTER TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Fort Hawkins, November 23, 1814. 

Sir : — Yesterday I notified the quartermaster of the regiment that I 
should be ready to issue provisions to them at sunrise, and, in consequence 
of the late hour they arrived to draw provisions, there is considerable com- 
plaint of the meat being killed last evening. 

You will be pleased to make known to me the hour that provisions are 
to be issued, and will appoint some one to inspect the same before they 
are offered to be issued, as the loose way of doing business as heretofore, 
of every man inspecting the provisions, is not admissible by my contract. 

I have the honor to be, with respect and regard, sir, your obedient ser- 
vant, Farish Carter, 

Army Contractor. 

XXXIII. — FARISH CARTER TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Fort Hawkins, November 23, 1S14. 

Sir : — Having applied to the commanding officer of this post for an 
escort for the protection of the cattle and hogs designed for the army, and 
having received for answer that it will be out of his power to comply with 
the requisition, owing to the limited force under his command, he requests 
that I should apply to you on the subject. The beef and pork are ready to 
start. You will oblige me by stating if it will be in your power to furnish 
the necessary escort in the morning. 

Yours, with respect and regard, Farish Carter, 

Army Contractor. 

XXXIV. — MAJOR-GENERAL McINTOSH TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Fort Hawkins, November 23, 1814. 
(Detachment Orders.) 

Brigadier-General Blackshear will proceed to organize the detachment 
now assembled at this place into two regiments and a battalion, agreeable 
to the enclosed table, which will be his guide. 

Col. Wimberly's regiment, being far short of its complement, must be 
completed by companies of the second class of militia from the counties 
of Jasper and Morgan. These will be entitled to choose a major. 

The battalion will be formed of Captain Saffold's artillery-company, 
three rifle-companies, commanded by Captains Henry Lane, Samuel Lane, 
and Thomas Anderson, and one line-company of the second class from the 
county of Morgan. Col. Booth's regiment being full without Captain 
Anderson's rifle-company, which is directed to form a part of the bat- 
talion. The battalion will be entitled to elect a lieutenant-colonel and 
one major. 

Major Philip Cook will inspect and muster the troops when thus 
organized. 

The contractor will issue the rations in future at the camp, where regi- 
mental deposits must be provided for the reception of rations, and the 
regimental quartermasters will attend to receive their rations. 

General Blackshear will appoint two discreet persons to inspect the beef 
or pork before it is issued ; and, should said inspectors reject as unwhole- 
some any part of the rations offered to the troops, the contractor is imme- 



424 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

diately to be apprized of the same, being bis property, that he may make 
the best disposition he can of any part of the rations legally rejected as 
unwholesome, — the troops having no control over what is not issued to 
them. The rations will be issued at sunrise every morning. 

Returns of the state of the army must be made without delay, that the 
general commanding may be apprized of the delinquency in his command. 
The general natters himself that every officer attached to his command 
will feel the necessity of his strict attention to the duties devolved on him 
from his station, and that good order, and a disposition to forward the 
interest and welfare of our country, will pervade the army he has the 
honor to command. 

The Rules and Articles of War which govern the United States Army 
are to be the rule and guide of our conduct. They are therefore to be 
read to the army by the commanding officers of companies at least once 
a week. This order will be communicated through the adjutants of 



regiments. 



By order of Major-General John Mcintosh : 

Thomas Hatson Harden, 

Aidc-dc-Camp. 



XXXV. — MAJOR MARK HARDIN TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Camp Covington, November 27, 1814. 

Dear General : — This is the third time I have sat down to write you 
since the army has pitched its encampment. I was defeated, having been 
obliged to attend to other business. I did hope to have received an answer 
to my letter from Savannah (soon after my arrival at that place) ere this, 
but was always disappointed. I cannot account for this in any other way 
than that you have been as busy as I have, though I don't know this to 
be the cause ; yet I am induced to believe it as the most plausible from 
what must have been, and must now be, your situation. I know you had 
a very correct idea of the trouble of managing a large body of raw troops 
before, which I presume you must by this time find realized. There is 
no doubt but an officer commanding militia in the service, and does his 
duty, fully earns his money. 

There is a report here that Gen. Jackson has had another fight with 
the British and was victorious, having had it in his power to count four 
hundred of the enemy slain on the field, with the great disparity of loss 
of only one hundred on our side. God grant the truth of this report ! 
The privateer Gen. Armstrong has lately been taken, as you will see by 
the enclosed handbill. The Wasp has been doing great things lately. 
Oh, what a fine fellow Blakely is ! 

It appears that our affairs at the North are yet badly managed. What 
Gen. Brown had gloriously fought for during the summer, Gen Izard has 
been obliged to give up in the fall. This is truly unfortunate, for we 
shall again have to begin the work next year. Whether this misfortune 
is to be imputed to Gen. Izard or not, I am not yet sufficiently convinced, 
and hope it is not. One thing is certain : the general is not as popular in 
the country as he has been. 

I am every day more confirmed in my good opinion of Governor Early. 
The stand which he has taken against the alleviating-system is sufficient 
to convince any reasonable man of his independence ; and his reasons for 



DAVID BLACKSHEAK. 425 

not .signing the bill is a substantial evidence of his correct knowledge of 
human nature, and judgment in the proper form of government. I am 
well aware that if the law is opened now it will distress a number of 
citizens : but there is another fact which long experience has taught us 
equally true ; that is, the longer the law is suspended the more deeply 
those citizens will be involved. 

It is reported here that a battalion of the troops which are now at your 
head-quarters took j\lilledgevi!le in their route thither, and while there 
behaved most ridiculously, threatening to force the Legislature to act as 
they should dictate as soon as they got arms in their hands. On this 
occasion, it is said, the Governor gave an additional proof of his firmness 
by going to the officer who had command of them and ordering him to 
march immediately, or he would put him where he could be found again. 
I hope to God this is not true. Though it is credibly reported, yet I 
can't believe that there are that number of the citizens of Georgia who 
are so hardened in corruption. If it is true, my God, what a motley face 
it will carry abroad ! It will place a stain on the character of a Georgian 
that the present generation will scarcely be able to wipe off, no matter how 
correct their conduct may be in future. 

The wars in Europe appear to be reviving. It is said Austria has a large 
force in the field. France has also a large force ready for exigencies, and Lord 
Hill will be ordered elsewhere than to America. This augurs something 
in favor of us. Lord send that they may get to pulling each others' wool 
in Europe again ! This may be a wicked prayer, but I can't believe it ; 
for I do think that every prayer which is made for the good of our coun- 
try is a religious one, though it maybe ushered from the heai't and through 
the lips of one who is called by the professors of religion a sinner; and I 
do think that this prayer is for the good of our country, because it will 
compel (speaking ironically) our old friend King George to keep some of 
those invincible troops which he has been threatening us with, at home, 
for other purposes of more immediate importance to him, thereby leaving 
it more in our power to bring him to a speedy accommodation with us. 
Adieu, for the present, to the affairs of Europe : Stop ! I must ask you 
if you don't think Napoleon is only sleeping. 

My dear sir, I have so little time for private correspondence that I can't 
copy this letter, — therefore must request that you will receive it with its 
blots as one that I can only offer in place of another without blots. 

Our troops improve much in discipline. I drill the officers separately 
every morning, and the brigade at ten o'clock. This, in addition to the 
writing-part of my duty, I can assure you, is enough for any one man to 
attend to. I am informed that Major Easter is your assistant adjutant- 
general : he will make a good officer. 

In writing to Mrs. Blackshear, I'll thank you to tender my respects to 
her and Miss Bush. You will be good enough also to give my respects to 
Col. Wimberly, Major Hamilton, and my uncle, John Hardin, together 
with others of my friends who may inquire after me. General Floyd has 
not been entirely well since he left home, but has been able to attend to 
his duties. He desires me to give his respects to you. I should be very 
glad to be with you ; but there is no hope of such an event. 

That you may reap laurels to the honor of yourself and your country 
is the sincere prayer of your sincere friend, 

Map.k Hardin. 



426 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

XXXVI. — BEDNEY FRANKLIN TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Morgan County, December 1, 1814. 

Dear General : — 1 will take the liberty of introducing to your 
acquaintance Doctor Abner Franklin, who will hand you a copy of Bona- 
parte's Campaigns. If you will be encumbered with them, they are at 
your service. 

I would be very much delighted to see you, as I am persuaded (at 
this time) you are in the avocation that nature designed you to act, 
and, it is trusted, conspicuously ; but my health will scarcely permit my 
coming down. 

I am, dear sir, very respectfully yours, &c, 

B. Franklin. 

XXXVII. — MAJ. GEN. McINTOSII TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Camp Hope, December 8, 1814. 

Brig. Gen. Blackshear will have Captains Williams's and Thomas's com 
panies, of Col. Wimberly's regiment, consolidated into one company, and 
proceed to have an election for company-officers. A major and two cap- 
tains, not being candidates, will preside, with a sergeant's guard to pre- 
serve order. The men attached to each company will be permitted to 
attend and give in their votes. The general will order this election at as 
early an hour as may be convenient, naming the officers to preside at said 
election. 

By order of Maj. Gen. John Mcintosh : 

Daniel Otis Dunham. 

xxxviii. — gov. early to gen. blackshear. 

Executive Department, Milledgeville, December 9, 1814. 

Sir: — I have this day written to Gen. Mcintosh, and enclosed him a 
copy of General Jackson's letter to me. This letter contains a paragraph 
which appears to me to countenance, in a particular manner, the course 
which was decided on at our conference. The Seminole settlements lying 
sixty miles to the west of Flint River can, I apprehend, be most advan- 
tageously destroyed by a rapid march from some convenient point on that 
river, which shall be selected as a depot. The troops may carry provi- 
sions enough, without wagons, to last them until their return to the depot. 
This movement will probably have the advantage, too, of being unexpected 
by the enemy. 

I intend to hold in readiness two hundred horsemen, who will be directed 
to overtake the infantry, after the latter shall reach the river and esta- 
blish their first depot. The object will be to co-operate in the destruction 
of the Seminole settlements. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 

xxxix. maj. gen. mcintosii to gen. blackshear. 

Camp Hope, December 14, 1814. 
(Detachment Orders.) 

Brig. Gen. Blackshear will march, with Col. Wimberly's regiment of 
infantry, direct from this encampment to Hartford, on the Ocmulgee 



DAVID BLACKSHEAK. 427 

River, and proceed from thence by opening a road in the most direct way 
to the Flint River, bearing in mind that he must apprize me, from time 
to time, of the strength and movements of any hostile Indians that he may 
acquire a knowledge of on his march, — taking special care that the informa- 
tion sent me may be the best his means may afford or admit of, keeping 
in view the object of his march, — to wit, to deter any hostile or marauding 
party of Indians from committing acts of violence or making predatory 
excursions on the frontiers of the State of Georgia most exposed to their 
savage fury, making every effort at the same time to arrive at the Flint 
River as speedily as possible, giving me the earliest information of that 
event. 

Upon Gen. Blackskear's arrival at the Flint River, he will proceed to 
select a proper situation as a place of deposit for provisions, and throw up 
a small breastwork, with pickets around it, and two block-houses at right 
angles of the same, about sixteen or eighteen feet square, which will be 
sufficient to secure the work from assault on every side. A subaltern's 
command will be sufficient for this station, who will remain and occupy it 
until otherwise ordered or relieved. His Excellency the Governor will 
detach two hundred horsemen to join the general at this point, as soon as, 
in his opinion, a sufficient time has been allowed to this detachment to 
reach Flint River. 

Major Blue, of the 39th Regiment, with about sixteen hundred mounted 
men, Choctaws, Chickasaws, and Creeks, were to march on the 1st inst. 
in pursuit of the Red Sticks and their allies. Col. Hawkins's warriors are 
likewise ready, and will join to chastise the Seminoles or any other hos- 
tile tribe of Indians that may be collected or collecting; and (if neces- 
sary) I will combine my whole force to that object, — which will depend on 
the intelligence I shall receive from you. If there should be the smallest 
grounds for believing a collected enemy in the route directed, the general 
will be particularly cautious to march in regular order, either in two or 
three columns, as he finds most convenient, — keeping an advance and rear 
guard, with double flankers in front, centre, and rear, to prevent surprise 
or ambuscade. The flankers ought to be relieved every hour, being an 
arduous duty. 

The general's own prudence will suggest the propriety of securing 
his command from any advantage which the enemy might take in night- 
attacks, by felling trees and throwing up intrenchments wherever he 
encamps. 

The general will keep in view the importance and necessity of my being 
well informed in all matters relative to his command, that I may act 
promptly as circumstances may require ; and he will report himself ready 
to join me as soon as he reaches the Flint River. 

Before you march, you will order the regimental surgeon to report to 
you any of your detachment incapable of performing duty from indisposi- 
tion ; and, should there be any that require medical aid, a surgeon's mate 
must be left with them, and one or two attendants, if necessary, with 
orders to proceed on to Fort Mitchell as soon as the surgeon deems them 
able to perform the march. 

By order of Maj. Gen. John Mcintosh : 

Daniel Otis Dunham, 

Aidc-de-Camp. 



428 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

XL. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO COL. ALLEN TOOKE. 

Camp Hope, December 12, 1814. 

Sir : — I have ordered Lieut. Dean with a detachment of men to 
Hartford, for the purpose of building a flat on the river at that place ; and, 
as we are not provident of grindstones here, you will let them have the 
one that Maj. Elijah Blackshear purchased at Dublin for the road-cuttiug 
expedition, and which was carried to that place by Maj. S. Taylor. Should 
they stand in need of any other tools to accomplish the object of their 
mission, you will furnish out of those left by Maj. Blackshear's orders, 
and which, I understand, were put in your care. They are public pro- 
perty, and, be in whose care they^ may, you can command them. I have 
spoken to the Governor on the subject, and should be glad if you would 
furnish Lieut. Dean with any information that may facilitate his busi- 
ness. I expect to see you in a few days. 

I am, sir, with the highest consideration and respect, 

D. Blackshear, 

Brigadier- General. 

XLI. — GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Executive Department, Milledgeville, December 14, 1814. 

Sir : — It is desirable that I should be particularly informed of the time 
of your movement, to the end that I may prepare the reinforcement con- 
templated. If that reinforcement is to consist entirely of mounted men, 
I apprehend they need not leave Hartford until you arrive at Flint River 
and establish your depot. I fear, however, that it will be found very dif- 
ficult to forage two hundred horses, and would suggest the propriety 
of one hundred mounted men and one hundred infantry, the latter to 
garrison your depot. Your ideas in detail on the whole subject would 
be very acceptable. I wish to go up the country early next week, and 
must make all the arrangements before I leave here. 

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 

xlii. — gen. blackshear to the officers of his command. 

Camp Hope, December 16, 1814. 

(Detachment Orders.) 

The third regiment, under the command of Col. E. Wimberly, will hold 
themselves in readiness to strike their tents and take up the line of march 
to-morrow, at eight o'clock A.M. The regiment will march in two columns. 
The first battalion, commanded by Major Lawson, will take the right. The 
officers will be responsible for the good order of their respective com- 
mands, to see that the men do not break their ranks, leave their com- 
panies, and stroll out of the army. Should any officer or soldier be so 
regardless of the duties incumbent on them as to leave the army without 
special permission from the officer of the day or commander-in-chief, or 
commit any depredation on the person or property of any citizen of the 
country through which he may pass, he may rest assured that he will be 
punished according to the nature of his offence. But the general has a 
i'ond hope that none of his detachment will, regardless of his orders ; sub- 
ject him to the painful necessity of even reproving them. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 429 

XLIII. — GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, December 16, 1814. 

Sir : — I have just received, by Major Grey, your letter of yesterday. 
You will consider yourself authorized to take with you such of the State's 
tools at Hartford as you may deem necessary or useful. 

Captain Thomas's troop of cavalry in the county of Pulaski is in a con- 
stant state of readiness for service, and his company must be the one 
which shall attend you. You will therefore apprize him of this as early 
as possible, and issue to him the necessary orders. The time at which it 
may be most advisable for him to leave Hartford and pursue you must be 
left to your judgment. The length of time it may be expedient for 
him to remain with you, depending on events yet to happen, cannot now 
be prescribed. But, whenever the objects of your movement down Flint 
River shall be accomplished, it will be proper that he should return. I 
enclose you the chart made by Captain Thomas of his route last Sep- 
tember. 

The company of infantry intended to garrison your depot must be 
drawn from the first class remaining in the county of Twiggs or Pulaski, 
or from both, as you may deem most advisable. And, as those counties 
are within your brigade, you will issue the necessary orders accordiuglj-. 
I presume that if this company shall overtake you by the time at which 
you shall have completed your fort it will be sufficient. The arms and 
accoutrements necessary for their use must be taken from those belono-inrr 
to the State at Hartford. 

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 

xliv. — major-general mcintosh to gen. blackshear. 

Camp Hope, December 19, 1814. 

Dear General : — I think it expedient to give you immediate intelli- 
gence of information I have this moment received through Col. Hawkins, 
that may be relied on. 

The British have determined to meet us half-way and contend the 
point of superiority with us. The following is the substance of the com- 
munication through Mr. Linebaugh, dated 15th November last, camp near 
Fort Mitchell : — " Power HaDJoe says, a runner which he sent from his 
town to Forbes's Store to learn the truth about the Red Sticks and the 
movements of the British, said runner gave Power Hanjoe the following 
talk : — < Ten British vessels are at anchor near Deer Island; seven of them 
are very large, and the British say each of those vessels have two thou- 
sand men on board, which will make fourteen thousand men. The other 
vessels are of a smaller size, and loaded with ammunition and presents 
for the Indians. The British have built a powerful strong fort at Forbes's 
Store, and the British landed and put three hundred men in the fort, 
which he saw with his own eyes. He further states that he expects the 
whole force will land there. He was down there, and saw the ten 
ships. Numbers of the troops are negroes. The British have invited all 
the Indians to come and receive presents ; and all the Red Sticks have 
arrived there, and all runaway negroes have gone to the British." 

You will readily perceive, from the substance of this information, the 
necessity of your using all diligence in getting to the point of destina- 
tion, — to wit, the confluence of the Chattahoochee and Flint Rivers, and 



430 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

to report to me immediately: at the same time to use every exertion to 
accomplish a place of deposit in as little time as the means you have will 
do so. 

In great haste, I remain, dear general, your friend and obedient servant, 

J. McIntosh. 

XLV. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO GOV. EARLY. 

Camp Blakely, December 23, 1814. 

Sir : — I hasten to transmit to your Excellency a list of delinquents, 
and also of the deserters from the detachment under my command. It 
is presumed by some of the officers that some of the deserters will join 
camp in a day or two. Others, I think, will not. 

I arrived at this place (Hartford) last evening, and am anxious to cross 
the river; but, on my arrival, I found my flat (which I had sent a detach- 
ment to build) not finished, owing to the insufficiency of the tools fur- 
nished by the quartermaster-general's department. The axes are said by 
my workmen to be made of iron. Only twelve screw-augers, — not worth 
a cent. I fear my operations will be impeded, owing to that circum- 
stance; but, so soon as I can possibly get off, I shall march. 

I have ordered the troop of horse and company of infantry to hold 
themselves in readiness to march at the shortest notice. If I should not 
be better advised, I shall order the rations and transportation from the 
same department from which the rest of the army is supplied as soon as 
they rendezvous. 

On my arrival at my first depot, I shall not fail to communicate any 
occurrences which may transpire. 

I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, your Excel- 
lency's obedient servant, D. Blackshear, B. Genl. 

XLVI. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO CAPT. THOMAS. 

Camp Blakely, December 23, 1814. 

Sir : — Agreeably to orders from his Excellency the Governor of this 
State, you will immediately warn, and hold in readiness to march at the 
shortest notice, your troop of horse, consisting of one hundred men. It 
is presumable you will be called on about the first of January next, if not 
sooner. You will be prepared to serve at least five months, unless sooner 
discharged. 

T have the honor to be your obedient servant, D. Blackshear, 

B. Genl, 2d Brig, bth Div. G. M. 

XLVII. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO CAPT. GROCE. 

Camp Blakely, December 23, 1814. 

Sir : — Agreeably to orders from his Excellency the Governor of 
this State, you will warn, and hold in readiuess to march at the 
shortest notice, all of the first class of Pulaski county militia, to which 
will be added the first class of the frontier-districts of Twiggs county; 
and, immediately on your receiving marching-orders, you will apprize 
Major James Patton of the time and place of rendezvous, who will order 
them, under the care of some expert officer of the militia, to that place, 
and of which you will take charge, to the amount of one complete com- 
pany in the whole. You will in the mean time apprize the men to pre- 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 431 

pare themselves for an expedition of six months, unless sooner dis- 
charged. 

Believe me to be, with respect, yours, &c, D. Blackshear, 

B. Genl. 2d Brig, hlh Div. G. M. 

XLVIII. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO GOV. EARLY. 

Camp Blakelt, December 28, 1814. 

Sir : — I have the honor to state to your Excellency that a part of the 
army under my command has crossed the river, and the whole will be 
over as soon as one flat can transport them. I shall take up the line of 
march as soon as we are all completely across. And it is with pain that I 
am impelled to state that we have no quartermaster, no contractor, — one 
assistant forage-master, who set out from Camp Hope to act in the 
quartermaster-general's department, as well as that of forage-master, with 
but five hundred dollars, (as he states to me,) out of which all requisi- 
tions and all the forage for horses and hogs are to be furnished. We 
now have not one day's forage in advance by the contractor. No soap, 
no spirits, no candles; nor is there any of the component parts of a 
ration, except flour, meat, and salt, and no contractor to apply to. We 
seem to be neglected by the departments on whom we chiefly depend. 

I shall proceed to the place of my destination and wait for none of 
them, whether I have rations and forage or not. If I am obliged to re- 
turn for want of supplies, it will then be seen who is in fault. I have 
used every exertion to get off earlier. As soon as I take up my line of 
march I shall communicate with Gen. Mcintosh. In the mean time it 
might be of service if your Excellency would let him know how I am 
treated by the contractor and quartermaster-general's department. 

XLIX. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO MAJ. GEN. MCINTOSH. 

Camp on the west side of Ocmulgee, December 30, 1814. 

Sir: — I have the honor of communicating to you that I arrived at 
Hartford on Thursday evening after my departure from Camp Hope, 
where I found my flat not finished ; but, by the time I had my tools 
helved and ground, it was ready for our transportation across the river. 
On Tuesday, the 26th, we began to cross the river. Owing to some 
obstructions, did not get the army over until yesterday evening. As soon 
as I got a sufficient number of my troops over, I detached two companies 
to clear a road and make a bridge across the first creek, — which is the 
most important in my route, and which is now complete. 

I shall take up my line of march early to-morrow morning, and expect 
to gain the point of my first depot in about six days, if the department 
of the quartermaster-general does not stop me, — which, by-the-by, I have 
serious reasons to apprehend. We have no quartermaster-general, but a 
forage-master authorized to act for him, — and that without funds. We 
seldom have more than one day's forage at a time, and sometimes not 
that. We have no contractor, no soap, none of the component parts of a 
ration except flour, hogs, and salt. I feel myself much neglected by 
both these departments; but I shall persevere in obedience to your 
orders, whether I have supplies or not. 

On my arrival at the place of my destination, I will lose no time to 
communicate to you particularly all occurrences which may transpire. 



432 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

On my arrival at my first stand, I shall make use of the best means I 
am possessed of to gain all the intelligence in my power relative to the 
force mentioned in your last at Appalachicola, and which, I still appre- 
hend, is not so formidable as was represented to you. 

I shall send this to T. Barnard,* and request him to forward it by one 
of his runners, and by whom I shall be gratified to hear from you. By 
that time I shall be at my first stand, where I shall wait your further 
orders. 

With my sincere wishes for your health and prosperity, I have the 
honor to be, with the highest consideration, respect, and esteem, sir, your 
very humble servant, D. Blacksiiear. 

L. — ANTHONY PORTER TO GEN. BLACKSIIEAR. 

Milledgeville, December 30, 1814. 

Sir : — Your letter of the 28th instant was received this evening by 
Captain Thomas. In the absence of his Excellency the Governor, who, 
I presume, will not return to this place until Tuesday evening, the 2d 
January, I beg leave to make a few observations to you in reply. 

It was, I have no doubt, the impression of the Governor that, when 
you left Camp Hope with your detachment of the army, a due proportion 
of the staff of the army would have been ordered by the general to 
attend you on your march. If this has been neglected, you should, I 
think, represent immediately and without delay your situation and em- 
barrassment to the general, in order that he may compel by peremptory 
order that attention to duty which appears by your letter to be likely 
neglected without it. 

Would it not be advisable for you to delay issuing an order to Captain 
Thomas to march until you can see a better prospect for supplying his 
company with forage, and can hear from Gen. Mcintosh as to tents and 
pistols for them ? If there are any of either at Fort Hawkins, Gen. 
Mcintosh can order him to be supplied; and without the latter it appears 
his company would be almost useless. 

An order should be issued upon the contractor immediately to furnish 
supplies at Hartford, to be transported overland to Flint River, provided 
you should not be certain of getting a supply sent down the river. Of 
this, however, you are no doubt properly advised. 

By a letter received at the Executive office yesterday from Gen. Mcin- 
tosh, dated at the Creek Agency, 27th inst., he informs the Governor that 
"We arrived at this place to-day. Crossed the army over the river. In 
the morning I shall take up my line of march." 

Probably Gen. Mcintosh will be able to relieve all your wants by send- 
ing supplies down Flint River, except what may be necessary for Captain 
Thomas's troop. This troop the Governor conceives to be in the service 
of the United States, and is to be provided for accordingly; but says, 
should he not succeed in getting the Government to admit of the expense 

* Timothy Barnard, a half-blood chief of the Creeks, was a man of fair educa- 
tion, -wrote correctly, and was acquainted with the languages of several Indian 
tribes. He acted as interpreter at the treaty of Fort Wilkinson, June 16, 1802, 
and also as interpreter and witness at the signing of the treaty concluded at the 
city of 'Washington, November 14, 1805, between Gen. Dearborn, as Secretary of 
"War, and the chiefs of the Creek Nation. See the two proclamations of President 
Jefferson in Clayton's Digest, p. 701 and p. 705. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 433 

incurred by it, he will guarantee the faith of the State to pay the expense 
of it. 

Respectfully, yours, 

Anthony Porter. 

li. — gen. blackshear to major james patton. 

Camp Blakely, December 23, 1814. 

Sir : — Agreeably to orders from his Excellency the Governor of this 
State, you will cause all of the first class of the frontier-districts of Twiggs 
county to be warned to hold themselves in readiness to march at the 
shortest notice and join the first class of Pulaski county under the com- 
mand of Captain William H. Groce, at such place of rendezvous as you 
may hereafter be apprized of, and who will form them into one complete 
company, and march when and where ordered, prepared to serve six 
months, unless sooner discharged. It is to be understood that when the 
first class of your county are called out they are to be conducted by some 
vigilant officer of the militia to the place of Capt. Groce's rendezvous. 

Believe me to be, with the highest consideration and respect, your 
humble servant, 

D. BLACKSHEAR, 

Brig. Gen. 2d Brig, hth Div. G. M. 

LII. — ALEXANDER MCDONALD TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Hartford, December 31, 1814. 
Dear Sir : — According to your requisition, I purchased fifty-five pounds 
of soap, which was all I could get at this time. I have sent that in the 
care of the wagon-master Paul, whom I directed to deliver it to the mili- 
tary-store keeper or the quartermaster. 

I have sent on three wagons loaded with fifty bushels of corn each, 
which will, I am in hopes, overtake you this night. Every exertion on 
my part will be made to furnish you with forage. While I continue at 
this place, I will buy soap to the amount of your requisition and send on 
to you. 

I have employed ferrymen to take charge of the flat. Mr. Kinnard, 
whom I sent to Fort Plawkins, has not yet returned. As soon as he returns 
I will send him until he overtakes the army. I wish the military-store 
keeper to take charge of the forage and attend to issuing it out. I wish 
the wagons to return as fast as they can be emptied. 
Yours, with the greatest esteem, 

Alexander McDonald, 
Ass't Forage-Master Georgia Militia. 

LIU. — CAPTAIN R. n. THOMAS TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR- 

Pulaski County, January 1, 1815. 

Sir : — I returned this evening from Milledgeville. I had not the satis- 
faction of seeing the Governor. I mentioned to Mr. Porter, his Secretary, 
that I was at a loss to know whether I should be attached to the service 
of this State or that of the United States. I also mentioned my situation 
with regard to pistols and tents. He observed that there was one hundred 
and ninety pistols at Fort Hawkins ; and, as to tents, by your informing 
Gen. Mcintosh how many you would want, he would order the quarter- 
master to furnish them. I also made application for fifteen or twenty 

Vol. I.— 28 



434 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

swords in addition to those I have already drawn. He stated that the 
quartermaster would furnish rue by your order. 

If you will make the above arrangements for furnishing of my troop, 
the favor will ever be acknowledged by your friend and most obedient 
servant, » 

Richard H. Thomas. 

LIV. — WILSON NAVEY TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Hartford, January 1, 1815. 

Sir : — I was ordered yesterday by the quartermaster to repair without 
delay to this place and make such arrangements about forage as I thought 
best or as you might direct. On my arrival here (which was at ten 
o'clock this morning) I find the business somewhat deranged, owing 
to the inexperience of the young men, and principally for the want of 
funds. 

I did intend visiting you personally, but am ordered to return to Fort 
Hawkins by to-morrow, which makes it completely out of my power, as I 
understand the army is at least twenty miles distant. 

Will you be so good as to inform Mr. McDonald, assistant forage- 
master at this place, what quantity of corn you suppose will be sufficient 
at this place, or to send from here to the army under your command ? 
The reason why I make the inquiry is this : — If, after your arrival at 
Appalachicola, the army is furnished by water from Fort Mitchell, would 
it be advisable to lay in corn at this place ? On this point you will please 
decide. 

Suffer me to take the liberty of asking, Is it safe to send a few wagons 
on after the army without an escort? 

The distance which you will be in a few days will render it almost 
impossible for fodder to be transported to you. I have therefore told Mr. 
McDonald not to forward on any more after to-day, but to send corn as 
fast as possible, unless otherwise ordered by you. 

I have left five hundred dollars with Mr. McDonald which the quarter- 
master sent, and have given him such instructions as I think will enable 
him to get along quite smoothly. I find the neighbors of Hartford extra- 
vagant in their prices of corn, (75 cts. per bushel,) and haul it ten or 
twelve miles. By the direction of the quartermaster, I told Mr. McDonald 
to give a dollar, rather than the army should not be supplied. 

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient, humble servant, 

Wilson Navey, 
Principal Forage-Master G. M. 

lv. — a. Mcdonald to gen blackshear. 

Hartford, January 3, 1815. 

Sir : — I deem it necessary to inform you of the accident which has 
happened here this morning. Five wagons — four loaded with corn and 
one with the cartridge-boxes and blacksmith-tools — started. The first 
wagon got over safe ; the second wagon sunk the flat at the other bank. 
This is what I have dreaded for several days. I am at an entire loss to 
know what to do. I have written on to Captain Lane, and directed the 
men to ride all night. The wagon is fastened to the bank. The flat has 
gone down the river. There are some hands after it, but it is uncertain 
when we will be able to do any thing with it. You can judge for the best, 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 435 

and act accordingly. I have thought it my duty to let you know the situa- 
tion of the business. 

Yours, with the greatest esteem, &c, 

Alex. McDonald, 
Ass't Forage- Master. 

LVI. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO ALEX. McDONALD. 

Camp, Creek Nation, January 3, 1815. 

Sir : — Agreeably to orders which have already been received from me, 
the forage-master will continue to furnish the detachment under my com- 
mand with long and short forage until I deem it expedient to order to the 
contrary. The quantity requisite for a considerable time to come you 
will yourself estimate from what you know of the quantity heretofore 
required to afford an ample sufficiency. It is also required of you, as 
agent of the quartermaster's department, to furnish a sufficient number 
of wagons to transport the blacksmiths, their tools, and baggage, as well 
as the forage, and also to superintend and furnish the means of keeping 
the ferry on the Ocmulgee in good order. 

In addition to the forage required for the troops now under my com- 
mand, you will take immediate steps for laying in and transporting forage 
for one hundred horse, which it is thought expedient shortly to call into 
service. Whenever an escort is by me conceived to be necessary, it will 
be furnished : therefore you will never wait for wagon-guards, but always 
send on your forage with the utmost expedition, leaving it to me to judge 
of the danger and of the propriety of escorts. 

You will call on Major James Taylor, who has charge of certain tools, 
the property of the State, and who is hereby required to deliver to you 
all the axes and chisels of said tools. Having received, you will send 
them to me by the first opportunity. 

In future the quartermaster will keep the road in good condition; it 
being at all times his duty, it will henceforth be required of his depart- 
ment. Therefore it becomes necessary immediately to hire hands to repair 
the road, as it is in a condition requiring it. 

By order of Brig. Gen. Blackshear : 

Thos. Hamilton, 

Aide-de- Camp. 

LVII. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO ALEX. McDONALD. 

Camp, Twenty-Six Mile Creek, January 4, 1815. 

Sir : — I received yours of yesterday, and am sorry for the misfortune 
at the river. Had the same attention been paid to the flat and landing 
as when the army crossed, the loss might have been averted. 

You are well apprized that it is the duty of the quartermaster-general's 
department to furnish transportation, to make and repair bridges and 
roads, to build boats, &c. &c. But, in order to facilitate the business as 
much as possible, I have had much of that kind of work performed : the 
rest remains for the quartermaster-general's department. I have already 
directed you to employ hands for those purposes. You will lose no time 
in having the flat brought up and the way made good and safe, and 
forward on the provisions before directed. I have sent back a detach- 
ment to repair the road a few miles. So soon as they return I shall 
proceed to the object contained in my orders. I shall implicitly rely on 
your best exertions to furnish me, that I may thereby be enabled to come 



436 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

up to the most sanguine expectations of Gen. Mcintosh, from whom I 
expect to receive orders to-morrow. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

D. Blackshear, 

Brig. Gen. 

LVIII. — COL. HAWKINS TO GEN. McINTOSH. 

(Copy.) 

The following information, received to-day from the Speaker of the 
Lower Creeks in a public council, is deemed by them substantially true : — 

"The chief warrior of Micco-sookie led a party of his warriors toward 
the frontiers of Georgia, — ten in number, — and killed five white people, 
and carried the scalps to the British below the confluence of the Flint and 
Chattahoochee. There are a few white troops at Forbes's Store, (eighteen 
miles up Appalaehieola, on the east side.) The store was surrounded 
with a ditch. Thirty-two warriors of Choctaws, from Fort Jackson, (a 
part of those who had surrendered there,) and a great many Red Clubs, 
were there. The runaway and stolen negroes were close by the store. 
Provisions short ; biscuit only. So great the scarcity of meat, that the 
Choctaws subsisted partly on old, stinking, raw hides. 

"The supplies of Indian goods, arms, and ammunition were abundant: 
two boxes of dry-goods aud four of saddles, brass kettles, arms, and 
ammunition. There were some vessels back of the islands opposite the 
mouth of the river with troops on board, and some of the troops were 
landed and could be seen from the mouth of the river." 

Accept assurances of my most respectful regard. 

Camp, near Fort Mitchell, January 4, 1815. 

LIX. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO COL. HAWKINS. 

Camp, within eight miles of Flint River, January 5, 1815. 

Sir : — I received yours of the 27th ultimo this evening. I have been 
much impeded in my march in consequence of difficulties that presented 
themselves in cutting and travelling a new road, and in consequence .of 
the difficulty of procuring forage by this route. I should be glad to hear 
from you what preparations are making for transportation from the agency 
to this place by water. I am anxious on that subject, as it is indispensable 
that I should keep up a constant communication with the general after 
my arrival at my first depot, soon after which I shall expect to meet with 
some twenty Indians, who will come well reco"himended, and I know of no 
person so capable of doing that as yourself. But the channel through 
which a communication is to be opened will rest entirely with Gen. 
Mcintosh. 

Believe me to be, with respect, yours, &c, 

D. Blackshear. 

LX. — MAJOR-GENERAL McINTOSH TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Fort Mitchell, January 5, 1815. 

Sir : — I received your letter of the 30th ult., informing me of your 
movements and the delay you were under in consequence of the want of 
some tools, but that your difficulties were nearly overcome, and that you 
would be in six days at the point where you were ordered to erect works 
and a place of deposit. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 437 

Tn consequence of information I have received from Mobile, pressing 
me to forced marches, I lameuted exceedingly the measure I was advised 
to, and finally acceded in, of your marching on the east of Flint River to 
the junction, as one battalion, from the last information I have collected, 
would have been amply sufficient for the service in that quarter. 

But, as we are now so far separated that a junction with me to answer 
the present urgent call at Mobile is entirely impracticable, you will, with 
Col. Hawkins, who will co-operate heartily with you, subdue any hostile 
tribes of Indians or British in that quarter where Georgia would be 
affected ; and, as soon as all disturbances are silenced and overcome by 
you, you will, without loss of more time than cannot be avoided, march 
with your command to the support of the Mobile territory, and join me as 
early as possible. 

In haste, I remain, respectfully, your most obedient servant, 

J. McIntosh, 

Major- General. 

LXI. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO HIS COMMAND. 

Camp, Thirty-Six Mile Creek, January 6, 1815. 
General Orders.) 

All officers and soldiers will be careful not to fire on any Indian that 
may be seen, except he discovers some manifest intention of hostility, or 
refuse to stand when bid to do so, or refuse to answer when hailed. They 
will be careful not to injure any friendly Indian, and particularly when 
bearing a white flag or other token of friendship. They will be careful 
not to communicate, by writing or otherwise, the strength, contemplated 
route, or object of the army. 

LXII. — GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, January 6, 1815. 

Sir : — On my return to town yesterday, I found in the office your two 
letters of the 23d and 28th ultimo. At the same time I received by 
express, from Gen. Mcintosh, a letter of the 1st instant, enclosing a copy 
of one to himself from Gen. Winchester, dated at Mobile ou the 20th of 
December. Copies of both those are now enclosed for your perusal. You 
will perceive by them the imperious necessity for changing your route. 

Whilst Gen. Mcintosh refers this matter to my discretion, it is at the 
same time evident that his solicitude is great that the force under your 
command should pursue and join him. And when I consider the great 
object for which the War Department required the troops from this State, 
and when to this view is added the fact, now clearly ascertained, that the 
very crisis has occurred which was at first only anticipated, I feel a deep 
conviction that you ought to pursue the original destination of the army. 
The destruction of the Red Sticks by Major Blue is a circumstance which 
also has its weight. It has diminished very much the causes which gave 
rise to your being detached from the main army. The Semiuoles will, it 
is to be presumed, be deterred from committing hostility; and, should they 
continue to manifest an unfriendly temper, I must send against them 
another force. 

You will therefore consider yourself ordered to join Gen. Mcintosh 
with the least possible delay. The route to be taken must be left to your 
own discretion. 



438 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

Should you have reached Flint River, and boats should have met you 
from above, possibly you may deem it advisable to ascend the river to the 
Agency. I presume, however, that you will consider it most advisable to 
retrace your steps, and, if boats should have come down, to order them to 
return, sending iu them some of your heaviest baggage. 

I cannot but enter into your feelings at this retrograde movement. But 
I know enough of your patriotism to believe that you will smother them 
under a seose of duty and the prospect of serving your country more 
effectually. I feel no doubt that, with exertion, you will be enabled to 
overtake Gen. Mcintosh before or by the time he reaches Mobile. 

The troop of cavalry, and the additional company of infantry which 
were authorised, will of course be discharged. 

I have the honor to be, with high respect, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 

P.S. — Since writing the foregoing, I have had a conversation with Col. 
Hammond on the subject of your route. He suggests that, in case you 
should be considerably advanced toward Flint River, it would be advisa- 
ble for you to penetrate by Barnard's to Coweta. He states that wagons 
and carts have repeatedly gone from Barnard's to Coweta ; that the route 
is over high sandy ground, and unobstructed by water-courses. He thinks 
that Barnard keeps a flat ; but adds, after the trial you have made, and 
with the means of information you possess, you can best judge for your- 
self. Barnard's is as near to Coweta as to the Creek Agency. If your 
boats are afloat, you might -readily draw your supplies from them. 

I only give you this as the suggestion of a man whom you know. He 
tells me he has travelled the route, and that families have moved along it 
to the Western country. You will be the best judge of your own move- 
ments. P. E. 

MAJOR-GENERAL McINTOSH TO GOV. EARLY. 

(Copy.) 

Within fifteen miles of Chattachociiee, January 1, 1815. 

Sir : — I enclose your Excellency copies of two letters I received yes- 
terday from Brigadier-General Winchester and Taylor. 

You will therein discover the strength and efforts of the enemy to pos- 
sess himself of that section of the Union, and the solicitude of Gen. Win- 
chester for aid at this critical juncture. 

He refers me for particulars to a letter of the 13th ultimo, which, un- 
fortunately, I did not receive, as it would have determined me in a different 
course with respect to Gen. Blackshear's movements. 

I am sorry, as circumstances have occurred, it had not been otherwise, 
as I believe no other enemy is in his route but a few Seminole Indians, 
not exceeding three hundred, which might have been subdued by one or 
two companies of foot and a troop of horse. 

I have received information, which I believe to be correct, that Major 
Blue received from the Red Sticks or hostile Creeks who fled from Pensa- 
cola at the approach of Gen. Jackson's army, being situated on an island 
which they had recourse to as a temporary safety from pursuit. The mode 
of his acquiring this information was from two of his Choctaw Indians 
being sent out to endeavor to get some information of their situation, who 
spoke the Creek language. They met with two of them who had crossed 
over to the mainland in boats to kill cattle. The Choctaws appeared 
friendly until they acquired the necessary intelligence. They then killed 



, DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 439 

and scalped the Indians, and returned to Major Blue, who immediately 
took advantage of those boats and passed his command over on the island 
in the course of the night, killed and captured the whole, except eight or 
nine that made their escape in another boat they had. 

No exertiou on my part shall be wanting to press forward with all 
activity, that I can endeavor to be in time to afford my best efforts to save 
our country from the polluted foot of a cruel and oppressive foe. I wish 
to God I had been a month in advance ! I did think, under existing cir- 
cumstances, that I would order Gen. Blackshear to retrace his steps with 
all expedition and to follow me with zealous industry. There is no other 
mode by which he can ever join me, as the idea of cutting a road across the 
country to be timely to render aid in the present urgent case is chimeri- 
cal, in my opinion, and would defeat every object of his usefulness. If 
you think with me, you can give that order positive ; otherwise, if you 
conceive the frontiers of the State of Georgia may be benefited from his 
services, let him be retained for that service. 

I beg that your Excellency will take this broad and discretionary power 
to govern that business, as my movements will be as rapid as I can make 
them, without probability of communication with that detachment, or 
having it in my power of judging of circumstances that might make it 
necessary to detain them. 

But on this subject I shall be glad of your final decision by express, as 
it will be of some importance to me to be informed on that head. 

I am, with great consideration, your Excellency's most obedient servant, 
(Signed,) " J. McIntosh. 

GEN. WINCHESTER TO GEN. McINTOSH. 

(Copy.) 

Mobile, December 20, 1814. 

Sir : — After referring you to my communication addressed to you on the 
13th insantt, I beg leave to solicit your attention to that part of it which 
relates to a reinfoi'cement of one or tioo regiments. The enemy has assem- 
bled his fleet at Ship Island, consisting of one hundred and twenty or one 
hundred and thirty of all descriptions, and his land-forces are stated to be 
from six to eight thousand. On the 13th instant, he captured five gun- 
boats near the entrance of the pass of St. Joseph, and on the same day 
one hundred and fifty boats and barges, full of men, were seen standing 
a course which indicated an intention of attacking New Orleans. 

If he succeeds or not in that project, this place will be his next aim, as 
the key to Indian influence. Therefore permit me to repeat my solicita- 
tions for a reinforcement of one or two regiments, to be hastened forward 
by forced marches. A few days gained by celerity of movement may 
insure victory, when without it the conflict may be doubtful. 

I have the honor to conclude, with great respect, your most obedient 
servant, (Signed,) J. Winchester, 

Brigadier-General Commanding East 7 til District. 



LXIII. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO A. McDONALD. 

Camp at Flint River, January 7, 1815. 
Sir : — I arrived at this place last evening, and am almost entirely 
without forage, and not many days' rations on hand. I send you wagons 
sufficient for the transportation of forage and rations, if the contractor has 



440 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

provided any at Hartford, or any other place within a reasonable distance. 
If the contractor will not furnish at Hartford until after the expiration of 
the whole thirty days, the quartermaster-general's Department will haul 
it from Fort Hawkins, or so much, at least, as will complete the first thirty 
thousand rations required of him by Gen. Mcintosh to be transported with 
this detachment, and of which the flour will fall short, (from what in- 
formation I have on the subject.) I think about the 13th of this month 
is the time when the second requisition for thirty thousand more, to be 
laid in at Hartford, will be on demand. 

As I am about to make this a place of deposit, and build a house for 
the reception, and a fort to defend it, and as you are well apprized that I 
shall call to this post one hundred infantry and one hundred cavalry, you 
will readily perceive the necessity of your unremitting vigilance in pro- 
curing and sending on forage and provision in such quantity as will leave 
me at no time with less than ten days' provision in advance. You will, 
without delay, state to such other of the quartermaster-general's depart- 
ment as you may have correspondence with, the necessity of more of their 
attention being turned to this object. I am now but forty-one miles from 
Hartford, and on the bank of Flint River, and, with very little labor in 
addition to what has already been done, will have an excellent road, and 
particularly so in dry weather. 

lxiv. — a. Mcdonald to gen. blackshear. 

Hartford, January 7, 1815. 

Dear Sir : — I received yours by the men who act as spies, — also, 
by the two men whom I sent on to let you know of the accident that 
happened with the flat. 

I expect to start four wagons across the river to-day, and to-morrow 
five more. I am using every exertion in my power to furnish a sufficiency 
of forage. I am doubtful, after every exertion, there will be blame at- 
tached to me. We have not a sufficiency of wagons to transport the 
forage. From what I can learn, the road is so intolerably bad that it is 
impossible for the wagons to haul a load. The wagons that I have loaded 
start with forty bushels, and receipt for thirty, allowing them eight days to 
go and come. In consequence of not having a sufficiency of wagons, I 
have not had it in my power to send long forage. I am at present en- 
tirely out of funds and out of provisions. We have not any flour or meat 
to issue to wagoners. On to-morrow, however, you may depend on my 
using every exertion in my power to furnish you with a sufficiency of 
forage. Your obedient servant, 

Alex. McDonald, 

Assistant Forage-Master G. M. 

LXV. — MAJ. GEN. McINTOSII TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Camp west of the Chattahoochee, January 9, 1815. 

Sir : — Since my last letter to you, Col. Hawkins has received the fol- 
lowing intelligence from one of his Indians, — a confidential man sent for 
the purpose : — 

" He saw twenty white and forty black soldiers below the forks of the 
river, about two miles east of the little old fields, where the Commissioners 
of Limits encamped : one officer commanded, in British uniform. They 
had not fort or ditch. They had one house built, and were to build an- 
other. They came up by land, and one boat came up with their provisions 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 441 

and other stores. He saw about thirty white and sixty black soldiers 
at Forbes's Store, — in all, niucty, which he counted. Five are officers, — 
the whites dressed in red, the blacks ia blue. They have four cannon, and 
seven mortars about seven-inch, two feet long, fixed on carriages with 
two low wheels, and the stores surrounded with a ditch and about two 
hundred hostile Indians. He saw a number of black women and children 
at the stores. The men were all soldiers. 

" He went by land down the west side of the Chattahoochee to Jack Mea- 
ling's, twenty-five miles or thereabouts below the forks, crossed the Appa- 
lachicola and went down the eastern side to Forbes's Store. The way 
pretty good for horse and foot. From the forks there are two creeks to 
Is-te-foo-mul-gee, a bluff twenty miles below Mealing' s ; small streams 
thence to the stores. It is thirty miles from Is-te foo-mul-gee to the 
Store, in all, — about seventy-five miles. He-te-he-hee had settled at Cho-co- 
mith-lo, a bluff' about five miles below the forks, but are to move up to the 
settlement at the commissioners' old camp. The Mic-co-soo-kee peop'e 
brought three scalps the day before he got to the Store, which they got 
near the St. Ilia. They were men's scalps, and were killed on horseback. 
He saw a large supply of goods and ammunition of good quality for 
the Indians. It is twelve days from the 8th instant since he left Forbes's 
Store. Three vessels arrived with the goods and munitions of war, landed 
them, and sailed immediately. lie saw no other, or any boats, except 
Indian visiting-boats. In addition, the following accounts have been re- 
ceived from the postmaster near Fort St. Stephens on the Toinbigbee, — that 
the British have landed thirteen thousand troops near New Orleaus, and have 
laid Pass Christian in ashes, and were marching for New Orleaus. The Tom- 
bigbee was ordered to be navigated as a means of conveying provisions to 
that quarter, as breadstuff's were getting scarce. He says that General 
Jackson has ordered all the free people of color to take up arms, — that the 
gun-boats and barges had a severe engagement, and eleven of the British 
barges were sunk with their crews, and that five of our gun-boats were 
taken." 

I have sent a battalion from this, under Col. Booth, to the Tallapoosa, 
with all the artificers I could collect, to build boats to take us down that 
river, and the Alabama to the Mobile, with our provisions, — considering 
this mode as the best I could adopt under existing circumstances, being 
informed that provisions are not to be had in that quarter, and the want 
of wagons to convey them any other way compels this alternative. 

From the overwhelming force that has appeared at New Orleans and 
Mobile, Gen. Jackson needs support with all the reinforcements that can 
possibly be carried to his relief. I fear greatly the enemy will gain some 
serious advantage. Under these circumstances, I am compelled to call 
for a battalion from your detachment, as you will then have a sufficient 
number with Col. Hawkins's reinforcement, (which will consist of at least 
one thousand warriors,) who will march to-morrow or next day down the 
Chattahoochee, and co-operate with you in all matters for the eventual 
subjugation of all hostile appearances in that quarter; and, as this detach- 
ment was particularly intended for the defence of Mobile and New Or- 
leans, five hundred detached for the Georgia frontier defence is all I can 
sanction with the information I am now possessed of. If additional aid 
is required, the Executive of Georgia, or General Pinckney, whose dis- 
trict you are in, will furnish it. 

You will therefore lose* not a moment, on receipt of this, in ordering a 



442 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

battalion to join me with all possible expedition. I am told the distance 
you are now from me does not exceed seventy-five miles. 

I have ordered the quartermaster's department to build boats at Fort 
Laurens without delay, for the transportation of one hundred thousand 
rations to your depot on Flint River. I think you had best send some of 
jour best artificers to promote and accelerate this object. Let me hear 
from you by express. I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, 

J. McIntosh, 

Major- General. 

p,S. — You can direct the battalion ordered to join me to march what- 
ever way you may think most advisable, either by retracing their steps, 
or to take oue of the ridges to Fort Perry. J. McIntosh, 

Major- General. 

LXVI. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO A. McDONALD. 

Cami>, Flint River, January 8, 1815. 

Sir : — Circumstances of the most important nature having made it im- 
periously necessary that I should immediately have at this post twenty-six 
wagons, you are hereby required to send on that number without a moment's 
delay. These twenty-six wagons you will charge with nothing more than 
a sufficiency of forage to last them until they reach this place (which must 
be within two days from the receipt of this, if possible) and back. 

The number of wagons herein required must be exclusive of those 
already on the way to this post ; and, if you should not have on hand a 
sufficiency of fodder and corn, immediately procure as much as will, with 
what is now on the way, serve them. 

LXVII. — GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 
Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, January 10, 1815. 
Sir : — I have this moment received the enclosed* by express. I hope 
you may not have recrossed the Ocmulgee when this reaches you. I en- 
close you a copy of the intelligence on which General Mcintosh's letter 
or order of the 4th is founded. I differ with him in believing, according 
to this state of things, that a battalion would be sufficient ; and we have 
occasion to rejoice that this intelligence has been received so soon after 
you had orders to retrograde. 

You are now to pursue the route you were going. Captain Lane comes 
to your assistance with some money. 

The great difficulty in foraging cavalry at a distance renders it indis- 
pensable that none should be retained. You will therefore pursue my 
last orders in relation to them and the additional company of infantry. 

General Mcintosh writes me that Col. Hawkins, with seven hundred 
Indians, was to leave Fort Mitchell for the confluence of the rivers about 
the 9th of this month, to co-operate with you. 

In great haste, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 

lxviii. — wilson navey to gen. blackshear. 

Fort Hawkins, January 10, 1815. 
Sir : — I have not (until now) had any opportunity of writing you m\ 
success as respects the corn-expedition. I proceeded immediately to Majoi 



* A duplicate of No. 65. The second enclosure does not appear. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAK. 443 

Blackshear's and reported my business. His boat was not complete; but 
so soon as it is completed, be told me, be would load her with corn to Fort 
Barrington. 

I came to Fort Hawkins and gave Mr. Armstrong instructions to 
proceed to Hartford and purchase a sufficient quantity of corn, wbicb, to- 
gether with the flour at Hartford, would make a boat-load. This he has 
done, and has reported to nie this day that he put on board bushels 
corn, and that the boat has gone. 

I should have used greater exertions on the Oconee, but, the evening 
of my arrival at Major Blackshear's, a boat loaded with corn, &c. passed 
the ferry, which I was pretty confident would reach you in due time. This, 
I assure you, sir, alleviated my mind considerably. 

I reported to the quartermaster your situation as regards provision. 
He says Gen. Floyd has made a formal requisition on the contractor for 
thirty thousand rations (I think) to be delivered at Fort Barrington 
monthly. Should this be promptly complied with, I think you can get 
along quite smoothly. 

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, 

Wilson Navey, 
Principal Forage-Master G. M. 

LXIX. — MAJ. GEN. McINTOSH TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

West of the Chattahoochee, January 11, 1815. 

Sir : — Since I wrote you, ordering one battalion to join me, I have re- 
ceived a copy of the Governor's communication to you of the 6th instant, 
agreeable to discretionary powers I had vested him with, believing I should 
not have an opportunity of corresponding with you as I was passing on to 
the point of my destination, — namely, Mobile and New Orleans. 

The Governor's decision on that discretion evidences his zeal and 
patriotism for his country's best interests. You will therefore, without 
the loss of a moment that can be avoided, press on with your whole detach- 
ment agreeable to his orders. 

Col. Hawkins will receive any support he may call on the Governor for, 
for the chastisement of the Seminoles or any other hostile Indians, and 
will be competent to that end, which he will keep in view. In conse- 
quence of this arrangement, I have countermanded my order for building 
boats on the Flint River, and have directed the quartermaster's depart- 
ment to transport, without loss of time, the provisions lodged there, to Fort 
Decatur, on the Tallapoosa. 

Your zeal and patriotism will urge you to every reasonable effort to 
comply as speedily as you can with this order, which is imperative. 

Col. Hawkins has sent a man well acquainted with the country, and 
who can advise you the best and shortest way you can march your detach- 
ment. It will be well to advise with him. 

I am, sir, respectfully, your most obedient servant, 

J. McIntosh, 

Major- General. 

LXX. — COL. HAWKINS, AGENT, TO MR. JACK KINNARD. 

The time is come when we are to compel our enemies to be at peace, 
that we may be able to sit down and take care of our families and 



444 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

property without being disturbed by their threatening and plundering 
of us. 

General Blackshear is with you to try to protect and secure the friendly 
Indians on your river, and to aid in punishing the mischief-makers. Go 
you to him, and keep with him till I see you. Take Joe with you. The 
general will furnish you provisions, and, when he has it, corn for your 
horses. You are one of our great chiefs. You know all our mischief- 
makers and all your neighbors, and can give good information to the 
general. You know the country, and you are a man to be depended on. 
You shall soon hear from me and the warriors under my command. I am 
your friend and the friend of your nation. 

Coweta, January 11, 1815. 

(To be read to him by General Blackshear.) 

LXXI. COL. HAWKINS TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

In the neighborhood of Fort Mitchell, January 11, 3 p.m., 1815. 

I have called back the express to send to you the order of the general 
for a change of the destination of your command. Of course, the com- 
munication intended for Am-mic-cul-le chiefs and Col. Kinnard will not 
be communicated. I shall call on the Governor for a company of foot 
and horse which were intended for you. 

I am respectfully, sir, your obedient servant, 

Benjamin Hawkins. 

(Pass.) Coe-e-maut-lau, of Cassetau, is an express to Brig. Gen. Black- 
shear. He left Fort Mitchell at 2 P.M., 11th January, 1815. 

Benjamin Hawkins, 

Agent for I. A. 

LXXII. — COL. HAWKINS, AGENT, TO THE CHIEFS OF AM-MIC-CUL-LE. 

The time is come when we are to compel our enemies to be at peace, 
that we may be able to sit down and take care of our families and pro- 
perty without being disturbed by their threatening and plundering of us. 

General Blackshear is with you to protect and secure the friendly In- 
dians on your river, and to aid in punishing the mischief-makers. Go 
you to him; see him; take him by the hand, and two of you must keep with 
him. You must point out sixty of your young warriors, under two chiefs, 
to be with, and act under the orders of, the general till you see me. He 
will supply them with provisions and some ammunition. 

You must be very particular about spies. You know all the friendly 
Indians, and all who are hostile. If any spies come about you, or the 
hostiles, point them out to the general. And your warriors acting with 
the general must be as quick and particular as his white soldiers to 
apprehend or put to death any enemy you meet with. Your warriors 
will receive the same pay as the soldiers in the service of the United 
States. 

Tell your women and children not to be afraid, — that friends have come 
for their protection, and that I am at the head of the Creek warriors. 

I am your friend and the friend of your nation. 

Coweta, January 11, 1815. 

(To be read to them by General Blackshear.) 



DAVID BLACKSHEAK. 445 

LXXIII. — GEN. BLACKSHEAK TO MAJ. GEN. McINTOSH. 

Camp, Flint River, January 11, 1815. 

Sir : — I have the honor to acquaint you that, on the 31st December, I 
decamped from the banks of the Ocmulgee and took up the line of march 
for Flint River, which I reached on the evening of Cth instant; and, 
after forming substantial and durable breastworks after the manner pre- 
scribed in my orders and pursued on my march, I the next day proceeded 
to the selection of a proper situation for a fort, and immediately com- 
menced building. On the same day unloaded all my wagons, and, 
except three or four retained for hauling timber, &c, ordered them to 
repair without delay to Hartford, for the purpose of transporting such 
articles as it was deemed necessary to deposit at this place. 

These operations, however, were suspended by the reception of de- 
spatches from his Excellency on the evening of the 8th, embracing copies 
of your letter to him, and from General Winchester to yourself, as well 
as orders requiring me to retrace my route and pursue you with the least 
possible delay. I accordingly sent immediately on in pursuit of my 
wagons a man authorized to order them to return without delay to this 
place. Should my wagons arrive this evening, (of which I have no 
doubt,) I shall take up the line of march early to-morrow morning, and 
cautiously exercise every expedient to pursue you with the utmost 
expedition. 

On the 5th, by the hands of John Winslet, a white inhabitant of the 
Creek Nation, I received a few lines from Col. Hawkins; but, from the 
hints of caution which these lines seemed to breathe, and from my not 
having yet reached this place, I conceived it proper to defer writing to 
you till I could do so by a future and safer opportunity. 

On the morning of the 6th I despatched Winslet with a few lines to 
Col. Hawkins, and with orders to call on Kinnard and invite him forth- 
with to meet me at this place. Of Kinnard I however neither heard nor 
saw any thing till last evening, when an Indian came, bearing a white 
flag, to the opposite bank of the river, and informed me that Kinnard 
would visit me this morning, — which he has accordingly done, and under 
whose care I transmit to you this communication. 

At this time many of my troops are quite sick; and, since my de- 
parture from Camp Hope, three have died, — two here and one on my 
march ; and of hospital-stores I am almost destitute. 

Concerning your route and views I would at any time cheerfully receive 
the earliest advices ; but instructions meeting me at Fort Mitchell would 
be particularly pleasing. 

LXXIV. — GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 
Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, January 12, 1815. 

Sir: — I duly received your letter by Captain Parten. You will pro- 
bably this evening see Captain Lane and receive your last orders. 

The requisition for medicines and hospital-stores has been attended to 
here by Major Fannin in person. On consultation, we were of opinion 
that, as you would now have to penetrate far from your resources, the 
quantity of hospital-stores ought to be enlarged. This has accordingly 
been done, and the whole are now sent to Captain Lane. 

Woodbine, a British officer, is with the Indians in Florida. I think it 



446 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

likely you may hear of the gentleman amongst the Seminoles. Beware 
of surprise. Your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 

lxxv. — gen. blacksiiear to gen. floyd. 

(Without date.) 

' Sir: — Pursuant to orders from his Excellency, received 21st instant, I 
am now on my march toward St. Mary's, making my route down the Alta- 
maha, and having in view the defence of our seaboard and the protection 
of our flying and injured citizens, and, if possible, eventually to repel 
the enemy from our borders. 

The invasion of the State by such a formidable force, and the confusion 
and distress resulting to our citizens, not only warrants this order of his 
Excellency, but makes it his imperious duty to call on such forces as can 
with most promptitude avert impending devastation. I shall, therefore, 
march with the utmost expedition to the scene of distress — the place 
invaded, or about to be invaded — as may in future be deemed proper. 

As the object of the enemy is not yet satisfactorily known, and as it is 
possible that his movements may make it necessary that you and myself 
should unite our forces, or in some other way co-operate, I have thought 
proper, with the advice of the Governor, to acquaint you that I am or- 
dered to march to the relief of the seaboard of this State, and that it is 
our duty to reciprocally communicate such information as may enable us 
to derive advantages from our respective positions, as well as such other 
information as would enable either of us, severally or conjointly, to con- 
duce to the defeat or repulse of the enemy. 

Presuming that much will be committed to our care and discretion, I 
think it by no means wise or patriotic to pause at niceties or dread re- 
sponsibility. I shall, consequently, render you all the aid in my power 
which can tend to accomplish the grand object, hoping and believing that 
you will not, on your part, act with injudicious reserve. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, 

D. Blackshear, B. Genl. 

LXXVI. — GEN. BLACKSIIEAR TO GOV. EARLY. 

Camp, twelvb miles east of Flint River, January 14, 1815. 

Sir: — On the receipt of your Excellency's despatch by Captain Lane, 
with the order of Gen. Mcintosh, I made arrangements to march to Flint 
River and to pursue the object it contained so soon as my supplies would 
justify me. But I hope your Excellency will not suspect I was surprised 
on opening a packet, express from Gen. Mcintosh, which arrived this 
night at ten o'clock, to find another report from Col. Hawkins, stating 
intelligence from one of his Indians — a confidential man sent for the 
purpose — that there were twenty whites and forty blacks below the forks 
of the river, without any fort or ditch ; had built one house, and were 
to build another. They came up by land, and one boat came up with 
provision. He saw thirty whites and sixty blacks at Forbes's Store, and 
a good deal of such stuff, — on which was founded a general order of the 
9th to send one of my battalions immediately to join head-quarters on the 
road to Mobile. 

In the same packet I received another general order, dated the 11th, 
directing me imperatively to march my whole force to General McIntosh ; 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 447 

and join him on the road to Mobile. I shall accordingly take up my 
march and pursue the general until 1 receive orders to the contrary. 

Duty to my country impels me to apprize your Excellency that while 
Buch reports can transform a British army of fourteen thousand from one 
number to another uutil it is reduced to fifty whites and a few blacks, 
the citizens of Georgia may be scalped with impunity. I beg leave to 
remark that tbe colonel has arranged every thing to his mind. He has 
furnished the Indians with arms, ammunition, rations, — for all sorts and 
denominations; has as many under pay as soldiers as he may choose to 
break sticks for, (a niuster-roll being out of the question.) In doiug this, 
it was necessary to make reports of various kinds, and as variable in their 
features, until Gen. Mcintosh has gone on to Mobile and left an imperious 
general order for me to pursue him. And then he can make just as many 
British or hostile Indians as are necessary to keep himself and Indians 
under pay aud rations; and in one night he can receive reports from 
confidential runners and civilize all the rest, and nothing to do but to 
break another bundle of sticks, and take his new civilians into pay and 
rations, and stay at their homes quietly, while we are beating through the 
wilderness, making roads to transport provisions and funds to such of his 
most happy and favored people as he may choose to point out. 

When the militia are called into service, they must be mustered by an 
officer of high responsibility; every man must be present and inspected, 
and, if not able to perform drudgery, he is sent home, and is glad to 
return without pay or rations. If he is able-bodied, he must do duty, be 
frequently inspected, reported every day, and punished if he fails to do 
his duty, (which is right.) But contrast this with the situation of the 
colonel and his scalping myrmidons. By this your Excellency will 
perceive that all your indefatigable exertions and arrangements for the 
defence of our beloved State are broken in upon by the artifice of that one 
old man, who does nothing but write and talk, and talk and write. 

Pardon me if I discover too much zeal for the defence of Georgia, exit 
the subject. It is almost indispensable that I should see you before I 
leave this State ; but I cannot leave my little detachment, two of whom 
died last night. I shall obey my orders at all events. I have made 
choice of you to convey my private sentiments ; and this is only intended 
as a confidential, private communication, and a small proportion of facts 
of which I have an ample fund. 

LXXVII. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO MAJ. GEN. McINTOSH. 

Camp, twelve miles east of Flint River, January 14, 1815. 

Sir : — On the 12th I had the honor of receiving yours of the 5th inst., 
in which you stated the impracticability of our forming a junction, and 
directing me to co-operate with Col. Hawkins in subduing any hostile 
Indians or British in that quarter where Georgia would be affected. 

Enclosed I received at the same time a copy of a letter from Col. 
Hawkins, and a line from the Governor directing me to carry your order 
into effect. I accordingly march again for Flint lliver. This night, at 
nine o'clock, I received your two orders of the 9th and 11th, directing me 
to march with my whole force, in obedience to his Excellency's orders of 
the Gth inst. I shall immediately retrace my steps and take your road 
at Fort Hawkins, which route I deem it best to pursue from a want of 
provisions. 



448 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

LXXVIII. — TIMOTHY BARNARD TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Flint River, January 14, 1815. 

Sir : — I received a letter for you from the Agency last evening by 
express, which I send on to you this morning by a red man of Chehaw. 
I had to promise him four dollars before he would undertake the business, 
which you will please pay him on delivery of your letter. He says he 
will take the value in homespun if you do not wish to pay money. 

If the Chehaw man I send you had not been here, I know not how I 
could have got your letter to you, as I could not have got one of the 
Uchees to have undertaken the business if I had offered them ten dollars, 
as they say some of the red people in that quarter are much displeased 
with them for acting as spies here and at the Agency. I have given the 
bearer a strict charge : therefore I hope you will get your letter safe 
delivered. 

Remain, sir, your most obedient, &c. &c, 

Tim'y Barnard. 

lxxix. — gen. blacksiiear to gov. early. 

Camp, twelve miles east of Flint River, January 15, 1815. 

Sir : — I have the honor to acquaint your Excellency that on the last 
evening I received by express from Gen. Mcintosh imperative orders, 
dated 11th inst., requiring me, with my whole force, immediately to 
pursue him on the way to Mobile. 

Pursuant to these orders, I shall to-morrow morning begin to retrace 
my route to Fort Hawkins, and then march on to Mobile. Consequently 
your Excellency may perceive the propriety of making some alterations 
in the arrangements last contemplated. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, 

D. Blackshear, 

Brig. Gen. 

LXXX. — GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 
Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, January 16, 1815. 

Sir : — Your favor of the 13th inst. has .been duly received. A copy 
of Gen. Mcintosh's final orders to you of the 11th inst. has been trans- 
mitted to me. 

I can enter into your sensations on this varying business ; and indeed 
my own feelings are little short of those which you must feel. I shall 
have to send a detachment on State account immediately to effect the 
object you were in pursuit of. It will consist of about five hundred 
mounted infantry, and, I hope, may be commanded by Major Freeman. 
1 am, respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 

lxxxi. — gov. early to gen. blackshear. 
Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, January 19, 1815. 

Sir : — I received your letters of the 14th and 15th insts. by express. 
A great crisis in our State has occurred, which has determined me to 
assume a responsibility in relation to yourself and the regiment under 
your command which no other condition of things would justify. 

Our State is actually invaded by the enemy, in large force. It is 
invaded in its most vulnerable point. I have official intelligence that two 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 449 

ships-of-thedine, seven frigates, and a number of smaller vessels have 
entered St. Andrews' Sound, made a landing on Cumberland Island, and 
are there establishing themselves. I have further intelligence that their 
barges occupy all the sounds and inlets between St. Mary's and Bruns- 
wick, inclusive. 

The defence of our own land is the first and most imperious duty. 
Were the regiment under your command without the State, on its route 
to Mobile, I should not interfere with it ; but, under existing circum- 
stances, I should think it criminal inattention to my own greatest duty to 
suffer the force to pursue its destination. You are already in the field, 
prepared at all points, and at the very spot most favorable for marching 
to the relief of the sea-coast. Before other troops could be collected, 
organized, and marched there, insurrection on one side, and Indian mas- 
sacre on the other, may have produced their full measure of ruin. The 
enemy have black troops with them. 

Under all these circumstances, I take on myself the responsibility of 
ordering you with the force under your command to shape your course, 
without delay, to the point invaded. You shall hear from me further on 
your march. Your route, I presume, will be down the river-road through 
Telfair, across the Oconee at Bell's Ferry, and then to Fort Barrington. 
The road which was cut last year by Major Blackshear would be nearer, 
but I suspect could not, at this season, be passed by wagons. Besides, the 
other is through an inhabited country and near the river down which 
your supplies will have to be sent. 

I shall give immediate notice to the contractor and quartermaster, both 
now at Fort Hawkins, of this arrangement. I think it advisable for 
you to take the earliest measures to have your detachment regularly sup- 
plied with provisions while on your march and at any given point of 
destination. 

Being ordered on a separate and distinct command from Gen. Mcintosh, 
the contractor will obey your orders for supplies, and the quartermaster's 
department likewise for transporting them. 

I shall, by express, immediately inform Gen. Mcintosh of the step I 
have taken, and transmit to him a copy of this letter. 

I am, with high respect, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 

lxxxii. — gen. blackshear to earisii carter. 

Camp, five miles below Hartford, January 21, 1815. 

Sir : — Imperious circumstances make it necessary that your attention 
be given to the delivery at Hartford of thirty thousand complete rations, 
contemplated in a requisition from Gen. Mcintosh; and, as I am ordered 
to operate within the settled limits of Georgia, you will take such steps 
as will enable you to keep the detachment under my command constantly 
furnished with thirty thousand rations in advance until the 1st of May 
next, provided this detachment continues to operate within the limits of 
your contract, or unless you are notified to do otherwise. 

Our country is invaded; and I hope in God you will use every exertion 
in your power to facilitate the movement of the troops to check the insur- 
rection and depredation that will ensue should we delay for want of pro- 
vision. 
. Vol. I.— 29 



450 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

LXXXIII. — GEN. ELACKSHEAR TO CAPTAIN LANE. 

Camp, fivk miles below Hartford, January 21, 1815. 

Sir : — You will, before this reaches you, have received intelligence of 
my route being again and again changed, and that I am now on my way 
down this river to Barrington on the Altamaha. I expect to continue this 
route until I do something. You will therefore use every exertion in 
your power to facilitate my movements. 

The quartermaster-general's department will forward on the supplies 
furnished by the contractor, agreeably to the requisitions he may have 
received, and call on the ordnance department for at least five hundred 
pounds of best powder in his possession, and at least ten reams of cartridge- 
paper, and transmit it to me without delay. You are well apprized of 
the quality of the powder he has furnished. I think you or Major 
Fannin had best come on, that I can have an understanding with your 
department. I shall proceed down as soon as possible. 

LXXXIV. — GEN. ELACKSHEAR TO MAJ. GEN. McINTOSH. 

Camp, five miles below Hartford, January 21, 1815. 

Sir : — In obedience to your orders of 11th instant, I retraced my steps 
by way of Hartford, and on my way up this river this day received an 
order from his Excellency Governor Early, a copy of which, he informs 
me, was forwarded to you by express. 

Knowing, as I do, the high sense you entertain of his Excellency's 
patriotism, and the imperious necessity of checking the pillage of that 
marauding foe who has already set his polluted foot on the most vulnerable 
part of our seaboard, and at the same time being greatly in your rear, with- 
out the least intention or inclination to deviate from your orders, I have 
changed my route, fully anticipating your sanction of the proceeding of 
his Excelleucy. But, should circumstances so present themselves as to 
induce you to order to the contrary, I am still ready cheerfully to obey, 
and hope your conclusion will be that, if I have erred, it was with the 
purest intentions, which could only be resisted by a man less attached to 
his country's interest. 

LXXXV. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO GOV. EARLY. 

Camp, five miles below Hartford, January 22, 1815. 

Sir : — Yesterday, five miles above Hartford, I received your order to 
tack and shape my course for the seaboard. Notwithstanding it was 
counter to the last orders of my major-general and might implicate me 
for disobedience of orders, I, knowing the patriotism of my major-general, 
and your Excellency vouching for the responsibility, reflecting at the 
same time on the necessity of anticipating his orders, did deign to change 
my route, and am now on my way down this river in pursuance of your 
orders. 

From this place, where I arrived last night, if the contractor and quarter- 
master-general's department will only be vigilant, I have made a requisi- 
tion on the ordnance department for five hundred pounds of good powder 
and some cartridge-paper. The quality of what I have you are apprized 
of. If the ordnance-officer is on the spot and has not given out all the 
good powder to Col. Hawkins for his Indians, perhaps I may get some; 
but it is even doubtful then. AVith the powder we have, our bayonets 
"will be our main dependence. The country abounds in provision, and the 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 451 

two rivers calculated to raft it down, that, with proper exertion in the 
proper departments, we need not suffer. 

I shall be at the point where I can begin to render ray country some 
service as soon as possible. I have a good number sick and many de- 
serters; but nothing shall stop me but want of provision. Great part of 
my deserters, I think, will return, and of whom I shall treat more particu- 
larly in my next communication. 

LXXXVI. — MAJOR-GENERAL McINTOSH TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Fort Decatur, January 22, 1815. 

Sir : — I arrived at this station to-day with the balance of my detach- 
ment from Fort Mitchell. Colonel Boothe, who had the superintendence 
of building boats for the transportation of the army down this river and 
the Alabama, has exerted himself beyond my expectation, and in eight or 
ten days will have sufficient boats to convey fifteen hundred men, bag- 
gage and provisions, to Mobile. 

I hope before that period you will have joined us. As it is all-import- 
ant that you should make use of every effort to accomplish a junction 
with me, the artificers with you will very much accelerate our object of 
speedy departure from this place ; and a few days gained may afford ua 
an opportunity of rendering essential services to our invaded country. 

We learn that General Jackson has for several days been skirmishing 
with the enemy near Orleans, and that he has uniformly had the supe- 
riority, although with a far inferior force. 

It will be necessary for you to send as many pioneers in advance of 
your army from Fort Bainbridge to this place as you can furnish with 
tools, to repair the road for your wagons. It was with the greatest diffi- 
culty I got on, the road being the worst I ever saw. 

You will, ou receipt of this letter, despatch an express to me, stating the 
probable period of your arriving here. 

I am, sir, respectfully, your most obedient servant, 

J. McIntosii, 
Maj. Gen. Commanding, &c. 



LXXXVII. MAJ. GEN. McINTOSH TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Camp, near Fort Decatur, January 23, 1815. 

Sir : — I received your letter of the 14th instant, dated twelve miles 
east of Flint River, stating that you would immediately march, retracing 
your steps, and take the road after me from Fort Hawkins. 

It is unnecessary for me to repeat to you the necessity of pressing for- 
ward with all diligence, — which if you do, I hope you will join me at the 
Tallapoosa, Fort Decatur, on the 5th or 6th February, when I expect to 
be ready to take ray departure in boats to Mobile. If you should not 
arrive at that period, I shall be at a loss to give you instructions, as I 
should, in that event, consider the services of the detachment under your 
command lost to the General Government. You will, as stated in my 
letter of 22d, despatch an express to me. 

I am, respectfully, your most obedient servant, 

J. McIntosh, 

Major- General, &c. 



452 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

LXXXVIII. — MAJOR A. B. FANNIN TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Fort Hawkins, January 24, 1815. 

Sir : — Your letter of the 22d instant by express was handed to me this 
morning. I had previously been informed of the incursion of the enemy 
on our coast, and of your destination in that direction by the Governor 
of Georgia. 

I learn that the contractor has been ordered to supply thirty thousand 
rations per month at Hartford for your consumption. I presume he has 
by this time furnished for one month, which you can take with you on 
your march. For the second month it should be deposited at Fort Bar- 
rington, or some other eligible place on the Altamaha, in readiness for your 
reception. It would be well to point out to Carter the spot immediately, 
that he may have no room to equivocate and say the requisition is not in 
form. The contract requires the place of deposit to be set forth, and 
yours just received is in general terms. 

I have no authority to appoint an assistant in my department : that 
authority alone is vested in the President of the United States. The 
brigade-quartermaster attached to your command will represent that 
officer. It is his duty, and I have given him orders and instructions 
accordingly. The disposition made of the members of the department will 
not admit of any one of them to accompany you. Major Gray, who should 
be here, is with Gen. Mcintosh; Captain Lequerse is at Fort Mitchell, 
superintending the building of boats for the supplying of Col. Hawkins's 
command down the Chattahoochee; and Capt. Lane is engaged in the 
purchase of forage and the forwarding of provisions in the Nation. I am 
hourly engaged in making settlements. When my funds are exhausted — 
which is nearly the case — I shall come on to the sea-coast. 

It is with regret that I hear you complain of the incapacity of the 
forage-masters attached to your command. They are men whom I never 
knew. If there have been any wanton improprieties or neglect of duty 
by any member of my department, you owe it to yourself and country to 
have it redressed as pointed out by the regulations of the army. 

The ordnance department are not capable to furnish at this place one 
pound of powder nor any cartridge-paper. I would recommend that you 
make known your wants on that head to Gen. Floyd, Savannah. I shall 
write to the Governor to know whether he can spare any from the State 
Arsenal, and, if so, will send it down the river in a boat intended to be 
chartered with corn, — as it will be difficult to procure that necessary 
article in the country you are to operate in. 

Mr. Slaughter, one of our best forage-masters, with instructions, is 
ordered to accompany you on your march. He will do his duty, and will 
be under your immediate control. I advanced him two hundred dollars 
until further aid can be obtained. If you have more wagons in service 
than are necessary, please have them discharged. 

I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient, humble 
servant, 

A. B. Fannin, 
Dcjnity Q. M. Genl, U. S. Army. 

N.B. — The two forage-masters complained of are ordered to this post 
to settle their accounts and retire from the service. A. B. F. 



DAVID BLACKSIIEAR. 453 

LXXXIX. — GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSHFAR. 

Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, January 25, 1815. 

Sir : — Your letter of the 22d instant has been duly received. The 
promptness with which you have proceeded to meet the enemy in our 
country is truly laudable. According to my calculation, this will reach 
you somewhere in the neighborhood of Bell's Ferry. 

My latest intelligence of the enemy's movement is from General Stewart, 
at Iiiceboro, on the 19th. All the country south of the Altamaha is in 
their possession. The people have fled, and the militia and regulars re- 
treated across that river. It is by some supposed that the aim is a march 
by land to Savannah. 

The part you have to act must necessarily be left to your own discretion. 
You ought immediately to communicate with General Floyd ;* and it will 
be highly proper that you employ vedettes to observe and inform you of 
the movements of the enemy. Should he be marching on Savannah, you 
will of course, if possible, fall on his rear and harass him on his march. 
Should he remain south of the Altamaha, I apprehend you should esta- 
blish a depot at St. Savilla, and operate as circumstances may admit. I 
have heard, verbally, that a considerable reinforcement from South Caro- 
lina was some days ago within a short distance of Savannah, but know 
not whether the account is to be credited. 

Captain Conner,f of Tattnall or Montgomery, commands a volunteer 
company of mounted riflemen. I think it probable that he may be em- 
ployed to advantage in protecting the Indian frontier from Fort James on 
toward the St. Mary's. You will be better able to judge; and if he can, 
in your opinion, be serviceable in that way, you will order him accordingly. 
The ammunition you write for will be sent off to-day from this place. 
There is none in store at Fort Hawkins. 

I am, with high respect, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 

xc. — anthony porter to gen. blacksiiear. 

Milledgeville, January 25, 1815. 

Dear Sir : — I take the liberty of sending to you enclosed a Savannah 
Republican of the 17th instant, in which you will find two letters from 
Capt. Massias at Point Petre to Gen. Floyd at Savannah, and one from 
Col. Scott at Jefferson, Camdeu county, detailing the operations of the 
enemy in the neighborhood of St. Mary's. It was by these documents, 

* See No. 75. 

f The Rev. Wilson Conner, who had been with the "Patriots" in Florida under 
the command of Gen. John Houstoun Mcintosh, was appointed Delegate from the 
Provisional Government in Florida to the Congress of the United States ; and, while 
on his way to the city of Washington, hearing of the disavowal by President 
Madison of the treaty negotiated by Governor Mathews, he desisted from the 
further prosecution of his journey, as his official character was at an end. Mr. 
Conner was physically of majestic mould, with features, voice, and expression of 
countenance to correspond, impressing the beholder with great dignity and reve- 
rence. For the last twenty years of his life, or more, he was a distinguished 
minister of the Baptist Church. At the close of a sermon he fell dead in the pulpit, 
some ten or fifteen years ago, realizing the wish he had often expressed to his friends 
to leave the world in this triumphant manner. His education was defective, yet 
his style was pleasing and generally correct. What he lacked in polish was more 
than made up by uncommon vigor of mind and unction of delivery. 



454 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

communicated to the Executive by express, that you were ordered to that 
quarter of the country. 

You will readily see what distress the people of that section of the State 
must be in. They will hail you as their protector and deliverer. 

We have not a word from Gen. Mcintosh relative to his progress on 
toward Mobile since the Governor last wrote you. We have a rumor 
by way of Athens, from Tennessee, that Gen. Jackson has had a battle 
with the British at New Orleans on the 22d December, and was success- 
ful. I send you the extra handbill from Athens relative to this subject. 
God send it may prove true ! 

In great haste, I am, dear sir, your obedient servant, 

Anthony Porter. 

xci. — anthony porter to gen. blackshear. 
Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, January 25, 1815. 

Sir : — A wagon will start from this place early in the morning, for the 
purpose of conveying to you, as was mentioned by the Governor in his 
letter to you of this date, four hundred pounds of excellent powder, in 
sixteen small kegs, twenty-five pounds in each, and seven reams of car- 
tridge-paper, — which is all we have on hand at present, and this but of an 
indifferent kind. It will, however, with judgment and care, make up a 
great many cartridges. 

The Governor has concluded it would be acceptable to you to have 
a few musket-cartridges in addition to the supply which you may at pre- 
sent have on hand, to meet any unforeseen casualty or event. With this 
view, he has sent in this wagon five boxes containing 2970 in each box, — 
in all 14,850, — which, with what powder we have sent you, and the car- 
tridges you may have on hand, will be a tolerable supply, and will enable 
you, in case ,of necessity, probably to furnish any small detachment of 
militia which may be in the field and should stand in need of the like. 

You will please direct the regimental quartermaster to give you a 
receipt officially, in the name of the Governor, for the whole of the articles 
sent you, particularizing the quantity of each, and send it back, under 
cover, by the wagoner, Mr. Stubbs. 

I send you enclosed a duplicate of the receipt given by the wagoner for 
the delivery of the articles before mentioned to your care. 
I am, sir, your very obedient servant, 

Anthony Porter, 

Secretary. 

XCII. — A. MCDONALD TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Hartford, January 22, 1815. 

Dear Sir : — I understand from Mr. Armstrong that you are inter- 
rupted with me for not coming on last evening to your camp. I am in 
this case blamed without cause, in my opinion. When we parted yester- 
day on the road, you told me that you would expect me to do every thing 
in my power to furnish you with provision and forage. I then took it for 
granted that you did not expect to see me any more until I was ordered 
on from here ; neither did I ever hear you say any thing about purchasing 
any provision on the road below this, — though, upon reflection, I conceive 
I did wrong, as I might have thought of the propriety of purchasing pro- 
vision on the road myself, and have come on to make arrangements 
accordingly. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 455 

I wish you to let me know whether you desire me to come on to you, 
to lay out what money I have in my possession, or whether you want me 
to continue here. I will have the boats loaded with corn in the morn- 
ing, and start to-morrow, if you do not direct Mr. Wilcox to wait to take 
in the flour. 

I have the honor to be your obedient servant, 

Alex. McDonald. ' 

xciii. — gen. blackshear to the army contractor. 

Camp, Bell's Ferry, January 27, 1815. 

The contractor will furnish at St. Savilla Bluff, on the Altamaha, one 
hundred thousand complete rations, to carry more completely into effect 
my general instructions of the 22d instant, within thirty days from this 
notice. 

By order of Brig. Gen. Blackshear : 

Thomas Hamilton, 

Aide-de-Camp. 

XCIV. JOHN SAWYER TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Mr. Shortloxg's, January 27, 1815. 

Dear General : — No doubt but that you are anxious to hear from the 
low country, since what you may have lately heard from that quarter. 

I was down at the time of the British landing on Cumberland Island, 
as well as when they took Point Petre and St. Mary's surrendered to 
them. They promised to respect private property; but that promise has 
been violated, and some of the gentry who confided in them are prisoners 
on board the Primrose frigate, (Major Clark and Dr. Ross in particular.) 
They are seducing the negroes to join them, under fair promises ; and 
many have accepted, and they are still going to them. All or nearly all 
the negroes on Cumberland Island are in training under the wretches in 
human form. 

They appear to be proceeding on toward Darien ; their ships and 
barks are seen off daily. I have no doubt but that they have plundered 
St. Simon's before this. They had plundered Jekyl before we (Mr. Chase 
and myself) left Darien, and burnt the buildings. Mr. Couper's family 
were on Cumberland Island when they first landed. He went with a flag, 
and endeavored to learn from them whether private property would be 
respected if the inhabitants did not move off. They told him it would 
be sacred. After that he had a conversation with a Captain Stephens, 
who had the candor to tell Mr. Couper that, whatever they might tell him, 
private property would not be sacred; that he would advise him by all 
means to move off his property, particularly his negroes, and tell his friends 
to do so. 

Captain Massias has fallen back to Barrington. Col. Scott still holds 
on to the St. Ilia with about eighty men ; and the Patriots — about sixty in 
number — are much on the alert. They keep up a constant correspondence 
with Col. Scott. Scott has intercepted some scoundrels driving beeves to 
the British. He took one drove from a party going to St. Mary's. I 
am in great hopes that Darien will be held. They have a force there of 
about five hundred; and more are joining daily. Mr. Spalding has not- 
moved any of his negroes. It was understood, but not much said about 
it, that his negroes exhibited signs of rebellion. Should a removal be 



456 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

attempted, you can have no idea of the distress of the low country, — every 
one moving their negroes that can, and many leaving every thing behind. 

The idea of Woodbine was more alarming than the British, if possible; 
but that fear has in a great measure subsided. From the best informa- 
tion, Woodbine never has had more than from forty to sixty men. They 
have not been heard of very latelj-. I left Barrington on Wednesday last, 
where I saw people direct from the southward. 

I am, sir, with great respect, your most obedient and humble servant, 

J. Sawyer. 

N.B. — Captain Massias lost one killed and two or three wounded. 
I saw two of the British deserters, who state that the British had two 
killed and several wounded. 

XCV. — GEN. BLACKSIIEAR TO GOV. EARLY. 
Camp, Little Ocmulgee, seventy-three miles below Hartford, Jan. 27, 1815. 

Sir : — Last evening I arrived at this place with my little detachment, 
all in health and spirits. 

It was a comfort, on the receipt of your orders, to bear down with all expe- 
dition, as early as possible, to check the enemy, and save as much as pos- 
sible the feelings and property of the flying inhabitants from the plun- 
der and devastation of the marauding foe. I immediately made such 
arrangements as would warrant the most precipitate march, if the con- 
tractor and quartermaster-general's department will do their duty. I 
wrote them immediately, and called on the contractor to keep me con- 
stantly furnished with thirty thousand rations in advance until the 1st 
of May next, except he should receive counter-orders. Not being fur- 
nished with a copy of his contract, I was at some loss in what manner to 
make my requisition ; but I ordered the former requisition of Gen. J. Mcin- 
tosh to be delivered at Hartford. These I contemplate to have furnished 
on my march, or at such place as may be stationed within the limits of 
his contract. I have, however, received no information from either of 
the departments, nor do I know whether they will attend to the business 
so as to enable me to proceed by forced marches until I arrive at Barring- 
ton. We should have been completely out yesterday but for a boat we 
fell in with that had taken alarm on its passage down and was about to 
return. I ordered the quartermaster to purchase the load. Under 
existing circumstances, it is impossible to coerce the contractor to his duty 
except I had funds to enable me to furnish when he neglected. We have 
been much neglected by that department in small rations. Provisions 
and forage might be sent down the Oconee, and for which we shall suffer 
if we do not get a supply in a few days. 

I should be glad to hear, as early as possible, if Gen. Mcintosh sanc- 
tions the change of my route. 

I shall be detained here to-day in getting across this rivulet; and to- 
morrow it is probable I shall be at Bell's Ferry. This is the last com- 
munication I shall be able to make, until I get some paper, as I am now 
quite out. 

XCVI. — GEN. FLOYD TO GEN. BLACKSIIEAR. 

Savannah, January 31, 1815. 
• Sir: — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of 
the 27th instant, and to express the gratification it afforded me to learn 
the route and progress of your march. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 457 

The enemy, after pillaging St. Mary's and destroying the fort and maga- 
zine at Point Petre, evacuated these points on the 24th, and withdrew to 
the island of Cumberland, having seized all the vessels of the citizens in 
the waters of the St. Mary's, without regard to the sovereignty of his 
Catholic majesty or the rules of neutrality. Neither afforded protection 
to American property. 

It is pretty well ascertained that their force amounts to two thousand 
men, of which number four hundred are said to be black. The whole of 
our ordnance-stores and the baggage of Captain Massias's detachment fell 
into the hands of the enemy, who, it is believed, meditate an attack upon 
this city after, if not before, the fate of Orleans is decided, — a circum- 
stance which must ere this have taken place. • 

Indeed, their designs against our State are derived from a source which 
seems to place the certainty beyond a doubt : it therefore becomes the 
imperious duty of those who have the direction and control of the ener- 
gies of the State to breast against the impending storm, which, from its 
threatening aspect, had elicited the exercise of the discretion delegated to 
me to augment our numerical force to such numbers as would make the 
result of an assault as it ought to be. 

The impression, however, that the enemy have not as yet received 
reinforcements has induced General Pinckney (who is now here) to dis- 
pense with the services of Gen. Byne's brigade, with the exception of 
three hundred volunteers drawn from Augusta, Burke, and Jefferson 
counties, under the conviction that the direction which has been given to 
your command, and one thousand men held in requisition from South 
Carolina, would afford a force competent to meet present emergencies. 

Three companies, in addition to some local militia, are stationed at 
Darien, amounting in number to about three hundred and fifty men. 
Captain Massias, with his command, is at Barrington, and Col. Scott, 
with about ninety men, at the Great St. Ilia, near Jefferson. 

As your command has been included in the calculation of the means of 
defence to be given to the seaboard and Indian frontiers, you will readily 
perceive the necessit} r of giving me the earliest notice of any extraordi- 
nary detention or change in the route now contemplated. As you will 
probably cross the Altamaha at Barrington, I shall, on your arrival there, 
communicate to you more fully the arrangements in view : in the mean 
time, I shall be happy to reciprocate an unreserved correspondence. 

Knowing that you breathe my own sentiments as respects our country 
and its enemies, it will at all times afford me pleasure to unite my efforts 
to promote the interests of the one and the discomfiture of the other. 

In your next, be pleased to acquaint me with the strength of your com- 
mand, prospects of provisions, and the probable period of your arrival at 
Barrington. 

That we may both be instrumental in preserving the interests of our 
country, and prove worthy of the confidence reposed in us, is the sincere 
wish of one who has the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient 
servant, John Floyd, 

Brigadier- General. 

XCVII. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO GEN. FLOYD. 

Camp, 118 miles below Hartford, February 2, 1815. 

Dear Sir : — It is with no inconsiderable pleasure that I have the honor 
to inform you that, on my march fifteen miles from this place, I this 



458 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

day received yours of the 81st, — but am extremely sorry to have to state, 
that from the great number of small streams bordered by extensive swamps, 
rendered almost impassable by the multitude of wagons flying from the 
horrors of invasion and insurrection, my march to Harrington is much 
retarded, and I fear I shall thereby fall short of your expectations, and 
perhaps fail to enjoy an opportunity of rendering to our distressed fellow- 
citizens that speedy relief and security so anxiously desired. 

My solicitude to attain the point of destination is much increased by 
the certainty you express of the enemy's designs against this State ; but, 
should no unfortunate event interfere to impede my progress, I presume I 
shall be able to reach Barrington on the evening of Saturday next, at 
which time I hope to be ready to receive from you advices concerning the 
arrangements. 

At this time the effective force of my command is a little above eight 
hundred, officers included ; but I expect a gradual augmentation to the 
number of nine hundred. My sick and convalescent, left at Hartford on 
the receipt of his Excellency's order, are beginning again to join the 
detachment, while new cases of disease are becoming extremely rare. 

Immediately on the receipt of orders, turning my course toward the 
seaboard, I ordered the contractor forthwith to furnish, at Hartford, thirty 
thousand rations previously required to be about that time deposited at 
that place. Of this, however, I have consumed a part, but have on hand 
at this time about fourteen days' rations. 

As soon as I was apprized of a place at which I should probably be able 
to make deposit, I made a requisition on the contractor for one hundred 
thousand complete rations to be delivered at St. Savilla Bluff. This 
supply I hope to receive in time to meet the exhaustion of what provision 
I have at present on hand. Of forage there is indeed a scarcity; but I 
nevertheless have a hope that I shall be supplied. 

Unless emergencies demand the contrary, I contemplate remaining at 
Barrington a few days, with a view to the restoration and improvement of 
the strength and spirits of my troops, and for the inspection of my arms 
and ammunition, as well as for the rearing of a few temporary buildings 
for the reception of public stores, &c. 



XCVIII. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO CAPT. A. A. MASSIAS. 

Camp, 132 miles below Hartford, February 4, 1815. 

Gen. Blackshear has the honor to inform Capt. Massias that the detach- 
ment under his command will arrive this evening at Barrington, and also 
that a gentleman of high respectability arrived in camp last evening with 
the pleasing intelligence that on Monday last a feu-de-joie of nineteen 
guns was fired at Fort Hawkins in celebration of the signal victory gained 
over the British, by General Jackson, at New Orleans. The report is 
that Gen. Jackson killed one thousand dead, and took five hundred 
prisoners, with only the loss of twenty men. Too good to be entirely 
true, I fear. Gloria Dei ! Gloria Jacksoni ! 

By order of Brigadier-General Blackshear: 

Thos. Hamilton, 

Aide-de-Camp. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 459 

XCIX. — GEN. FLOYD TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Darien, February G, 1815. 
(Division Orders.) 

Brigadier-General Blackshear will, on the receipt of this order, relieve 
the troops stationed at this place under the command of Major King, 
making Barrington his head-quarters, where he will cause to be erected 
houses for provisions, as the principal depot in this quarter. 

In placing troops in the neighborhood of Darien, Gen. Blackshear will 
take a view of the different points capable of being approached, and post 
the detachment accordingly, keeping out pickets to guard against sur- 
prise. Boats and crafts of every description will be placed in some secure 
and commanding situation, unless their owners will be responsible for their 
safe-keeping. 

Major King, on being relieved, will immediately take up his line of 
inarch and proceed to Camp Covington, where he will report himself on 
his arrival. The returning provision-wagons will furnish transportation 
for the detachment's baggage. 

Captain James Hamilton's company of artillery will resume their com- 
mand at Sunbury, taking with them the artillery belonging to that place. 

Major Hopkins will discharge the local militia under his command, 
taking care to hold them in readiness to co-operate with the detachment 
at Darien, or at any other point, as circumstances may require. The 
detachment furnished at Darien by Gen. Blackshear will take charge of 
the two pieces of ordnance, which will not be removed unless emergencies 
should make it necessary. 

The detachment of regulars under Capt. Massias will, as soon as they 
are supplied with provisions and ammunition, hold themselves in readi- 
ness to march southwardly. 

Gen. Blackshear will communicate all important information to head- 
quarters at Savannah. 

By order of Brigadier-General John Floyd, commanding 1st Division 
Georgia militia. Thos. Bourke, 

Aide-de-Camp. 

C. — GOV. EARLY TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Executive Department, Georgia, February 8, 1815. 

Sir : — I have not heard from you since you crossed the Oconee River, 
but presume you are by this time about Fort Barrington. I believe I 
have not, in any of my former letters, directed you expressly to report 
yourself to General Floyd; but I presume you have communicated with 
him in such way as to answer the same purpose. I have written to Gen. 
Pinckney at Savannah fully on the subject of your situation, and expect 
an answer to-morrow. 

By a letter from Major-General Mcintosh, dated at the Tallapoosa 
River on the 28th ultimo, I have been assured that he most fully approves 
of the orders which were given you to march toward the seaboard. He 
was to move the next morning for Mobile. 

Should orders or instructions be sent you by Gen. Pinckney or Gen 
Floyd, you will of course conform to them. Indeed, it is to be expected 
that you may have received such immediately on your opening a commu- 
nication with the latter officer. 



460 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

I enclose you a newspaper, by which you will discover that General 
Jackson is making glorious havoc of the enemy at New Orleans. 
I have the honor to be, with high respect, your obedient servant, 

Peter Early. 

ci. — anthony torter to gen. blackshear. 

Milledgeville, February 8, 1815. 

Dear Sir: — On the 81st of January, I wrote a letter to you with a 
view of sending it immediately after : being disappointed, however, it has 
remained in the office ever since. I have now an opportunity, and have 
concluded to send it to you. 

I send enclosed some commissions for officers in your detachment of 
militia in the room of Capt. Lee, &c. from Wilkinson. 

The Governor writes you by this conveyance, and has sent the last 
Georgia Journal, which will, 1 believe, give you all the information we 
have at this place at present. 

In haste, I am, dear sir, your very obedient servant, 

Anthony Pouter. 

on. — major-general pinckney TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

(General Orders.) 

Head-Quarters, Sixth Military District, Savannah, February 8, 1815. 

In all cases where bacon is issued to troops as a part of the rations, nine 
ounces will be the proportion of each ration in lieu of beef or pork. 

The quartermaster's department and contractor will be prepared to fur- 
nish to troops, to be stationed at Brearly, Montgomery, and White Bluff, 
whatever is allowed by law or regulations in their respective departments. 

(Order of February 9, 1815.) In all cases where persons (other than 
soldiers) are arrested by military authority for contravention of the law3, 
or suspicion of treason or illegal practices, affidavits must be taken of the 
facts alleged, and transmitted with the prisoners to the officer commanding 
the troops of the United States in the State where the arrest takes place. 
The prisoners, with the affidavits and evidence, will be referred to the 
United States District Attorney, except iu cases cognizable by military 
law only, when they are to be brought before a military tribunal. 

By order of Major-General Pinckney, commanding military district 
No. 6 : Mark Hardin, 

Assistant Adjutant- General State Troops U. S. service. 

CIII. — GEN. FLOYD TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Savannah, February 12, 1815. 
(Division Order.) 

Brigadier-General Blackshear will, on the receipt of this order, furnish 
from his command one full company, who will join a detachment of local 
militia under the command of Major Hopkins, for the purpose of pre- 
occupying Sapelo Island in order to repel any hostile attempt of the 
enemy. A voluntary tender of service for the accomplishment of this 
object would be preferred, and, it is believed, will be alforded with alacrity, 
on the condition that Major Hopkins will furnish a competent number of 
men to navigate the boats to be employed, and act as pilots, by water and 
land, taking care to furnish the whole detachment with at least eight or 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 461 

ten days' provisions. The continuance of the troops on Sapelo will be 
regulated by circumstances, or augmented as General Blackskear in his 
judgment may think proper. John Floyd, 

Brigadier- General. 

CIV. — GEN. FLOYD TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Savannah, February 12, 1815. 

Dear General : — It is confidently believed, by the best-informed 
persons here, that the preliminaries of peace were signed at Ghent by the 
contending parties, on the 24th of November, and that the official account 
of it will soon reach us, although it would be unwise and impolitic to rely 
on its probability; yet it has considerably lessened the expectations of an 
attack on this place. 

It is nevertheless believed that the enemy will, in the mean time, be 
more vigilant in the prosecution of their predatory warfare where it can 
be effected without much risk. The greater exertion on our part becomes 
necessary to counteract their mischievous designs. Therefore, if Major 
Hopkins will furnish a suitable number of his militia who are acquainted 
with the management of boats, I think the contemplated expedition will, 
if properly managed, be productive of beneficial effects, without encoun- 
tering much risk. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

John Floyd, Brig. Gen. 

CV. — MAJOR-GENERAL PINCKNEY TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 
Head-Quarters, Sixth Military Division, Savannah, February 13, 1815. 

(General Orders.) 

Colonel Boote, Inspector-General United States army, will proceed to 
have mustered, as expeditiously as possible, the following militia troops 
called into the service of the United States, — viz. : 

First regiment, commanded by Col. Johnson, now at Savannah. 

Three volunteer companies from Augusta, one from Scriven, one from 
Jefferson, and one from Burke. 

A company of second regiment, now at Hardwick. 

One company of artillery, commanded by Capt. Hamilton, now at 
Sunbury. 

A detachment of 80th regiment under Col. Scott, now at the St. Ilia. 

Two troops of dragoons and two companies of riflemen of South Caro- 
lina, ordered to report to the officer commanding troops of the United 
States in Savannah. 

One regiment and one battalion of South Carolina infantry, ordered to 
rendezvous at the Two Sisters' Ferry. 

The drafted militia will be mustered in the same proportion of com- 
missioned and non-commissioned officers and privates as obtain in the 
regular service, — the volunteers, serving as such, in the same proportion 
that obtain in the laws of the States to which they respectively belong. 

By command of Major-General Pinckuey : Mark Hardin, 

Assistant Adjutant- General. 

CVI. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO GEN. FLOYD.' 

Camp near Darien, February 13, 1815. 
Sir : — Ever since you left this place, we have been in a constant state 
of alarm, and the principal inhabitants remonstrating against my leaviug 



462 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

this station. I have therefore, agreeably to your orders, explored the 
passes through which this place is most accessible, and picketed them; 
and immediately on your departure I despatched one full company to 
Barrington in addition to those already there, to build houses for the 
deposit of provisions, and to protect that post. 

Last Thursday, a party of the British ran up and landed at Mr. Brails- 
ford's, south of this, broke the house and trunks, and carried off some 
clothing. They then went over to Broten Island, broke and plundered 
the house. Immediately on gaining this intelligence, I detached a party 
to Broten and the intermediate islands, who waited in ambush one day and 
night, in hopes that they would make a second visit, but made no dis- 
covery, only of a boat from Amelia. 

I have just heard from St. Simon's by a gentleman of high respect- 
ability, who states the force of the enemy there to be a small plundering 
party, who are getting all the negroes they can entice, and large numbers 
are going off the main to them. I have just passed au order for the 
security or destruction of all the small boats and canoes between this and 
Brunswick, to prevent the blacks from going off en masse. They are con- 
tinually going to and returning from the enemy. I have received advice 
that they sent a boat, piloted by a negro, to cut off the picket on the 
General's Island, but failed in consequence of the pilot missing his way. 
Independent of this, we have citizens now in Darien who not only justify 
the enemy, but openly abuse the American Government, and endeavor to 
induce them to believe that they will never get pay for their services, that 
our Government is bankrupt, and a number of like expressions calculated 
to excite sedition or mutiny. I am anxious to have these men, and all 
suspected characters, arrested ; but, being aware of the privileges allowed, 
I am at a loss what mode to pursue. I should be glad, therefore, if you 
would fully point out to me what line of conduct I ought to pursue in 
such cases. 

I expect to remain in this neighborhood a day or two, or until I can 
hear from you. I shall, however, proceed to Barrington as soon as I can 
have the exposed points on the south branches of this river so picketed 
as to prevent the enemy completely from stealing a inarch on this place, 
except it shall be your pleasure, or that of Gen. Pinckney, to order me 
otherwise, — which I am at all times, in any circumstances, ready to obey, 
and, in the mean time, to afford any exertion to protect the persons and 
property in this part of the country. 

CVII. — GEN. PINCKNEY TO GEN. FLOYD. 
Head-Quarters, Sixth Military Division, Savannah, February 14, 1815. 

(General Orders.) 

The militia troops of Cuthbert's brigade, called into the service of the 
United States, and assembled at Sisters' Ferry, including the two com- 
panies of riflemen under marching-orders, will be discharged as soon as 
mustered. Any part of these troops not joined are hereby countermanded. 
The senior officer at Sisters' Ferry will take the most prompt and effectual 
means to publish this order, that those who have not joined may not 
unnecessarily turn out. The draft from this brigade being countermanded, 
those who have already assembled will be mustered without observing the 
proportions of commissioned and non-commissioned officers and privates 
directed by the general orders. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Austin, an officer commanding a regiment of South 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 463 

Carolina infantry called into United States service and ordered to ren- 
dezvous at Two Sisters' Ferry, will obey the requisition of Brigadier- 
General Floyd, commanding troops in the United States service in Georgia 
to move into Georgia, and, on his arrival there, will report to Gen. Floyd 
and obey his orders. 

By command of Major-General Pinckney : John Ewing, 

Assistant Adjutant- General. 

CVIII. JAMES MONROE TO MAJOR-GENERAL PINCKNEY. 

Department of War, February 14, 1815. 

(Copy.) 

Sir : — It is with great satisfaction that I have to inform you that a 
treaty of peace was concluded between the United States and Great Britain, 
at Ghent, on the 24th December last. A copy of this treaty was received 
to-day, by Mr. Carroll, has been examined by the President, and will, I 
have no doubt, be ratified. 

I give you this information that hostilities may immediately cease 
between our troops and those of Great Britain. It will be proper for you 
to notify this to the British commander in your vicinity. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, 

(Signed,) James Monroe. 

CIX. — ORDERS FROM GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Camp near Dariex, February 1G, 1815. 

The military-store keepers will, in future, be held responsible for the 
quality and condition of all provision which they may receive from the 
contractor's or other department, at the time such provision may have 
been received. And should it appear that any such provision so received 
by them was unfit for the use of the army at the time it was receipted for, 
it shall be their loss, and not the loss of the United States; and of this 
order all whom it may concern will take notice. 

CX, — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO MAJOR F. HOPKINS. 

Camp near Darien, February 25, 1815. 

Sir : — Captain Burke arrived last night, two days from Charleston, 
with intelligence of peace, — a copy of which is enclosed ; and it is or- 
dered that hostilities should cease. Capt. Burke is gone with despatches to 
Cumberland, to the commanding-officer of the British forces at that place. 

Captain White, with his command, will therefore immediately return 
and join camp; and Major Hopkins will dispose of the local militia under 
his command, in pursuance of his orders from Gen. Floyd, — which, I pre- 
sume, under existing circumstances, will be to discharge them. Of the 
propriety of this Maj. Hopkins will judge. 

I have the honor to be your humble servant, 

D. BLACKSHEAR, 

Brig. Gcnl. 

CXI. — GEN. FLOYD TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Savannah, February 25, 1815. 
(Private.) 

Dear Sir : — The official accounts of a peace having been concluded 
between our country and Great Britain appear to have filled the hearts of 



464 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

the populace here with joy. The accounts were received on the evening 
of the day which the mayor had proclaimed should be celebrated by 
illumination and music, in commemoration of the illustrious Washing- 
ton's birth, and in celebration of General Jackson's victory over our im- 
placable enemy at Orleans. 

This strange coincidence of circumstances afforded all parties an oppor- 
tunity of expressing their joy. But I presume that many whose hearts 
throbbed for the fallen bands of the world's last hope congratulated 
themselves at the close of the drama which might, if continued, have 
brought them in their proper colors on the stage. Joy gleamed on every 
countenance. The night was gloomy and calm. The streets were crowded 
with people of all colors, sorts, and denominations, who, with lighted 
candles, on foot and on horseback, enlivened the streets. 

The crowd, led by the military, traversed the streets in procession, ac- 
companied by all the music of a martial kind that the city afforded. The 
vessels in the harbor were illuminated, and the air resounded with loud 
huzzas and firing of small arms. The seamen had a small ship, which 
they carried through the streets, decorated, exclaiming, "Don't yice up 
the ship!" 

Private letters from Washington state that the treaty was ratified on 
the 16th instant. This evening's mail will probably bring us the Presi- 
dent's proclamation on that subject. In England, such was the joy, 
that the horses were taken out of the stage which conveyed the intelli- 
gence through the country towns, and the stage drawn through the towns 
by the populace. 

I presume that the militia of my brigade will shortly be disbanded. I 
have sounded General Pinckney to know whether he will permit you to 
pay our red friends a visit, by the way of winding up the show. I shall 
communicate to you the result. 

I dislike the cession of the Floridas to the English. They will be a 
thorn in our side so long as we suffer them to remain, — which, I trust in 
God and my country, will not be long. Time will not allow me to say 
more at present. Accept my best respects. Present me to your officers, 
and believe me to be, with sentiments of high regard, your friend and 
fellow-citizen, John Floyd. 

CXII. — GEN. FLOYD TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Savannah, February 27, 1815. 
(Division Orders.) 

Officers commanding regiments and separate corps of militia in the 
service of the United States within the State of Georgia will, imme- 
diately on the receipt of this order, cause estimates to be made out of the 
pay due to their regiments and corps up to first March, and transmit 
them without delay to the United States paymaster in this State. 

In pursuance of general orders of 25th instant, all the militia in ser- 
vice within the State will be discharged as soon as they shall be mustered 
and settlements made with the paymasters. They will be marched to 
their regimental rendezvous, and there discharged. 

Commanding officers of regiments and corps are authorized to give per- 
mission to such officers, non-commissioned officers, and privates, as are 
desirous to proceed home without transportation being furnished them by 
the public. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 465 

The quartermaster-general's department will furnish the necessary- 
transportation on the requisition of officers commanding regiments, corps, 
or detachments, and afford every accommodation to the sick (on requisi- 
tion of a medical officer) to enable them to get to their homes. Those 
who cannot at present move will be accommodated at the present hos- 
pitals, and supplied with hospital-stores until they are able to move. 
Commanding officers of separate commands will detail a sufficient number 
of surgeons to attend them. 

The quartermaster-general's department will provide stores, if neces- 
sary, and appoint proper agents to receive army-accoutrements, ammuni- 
tion, camp-equipage, and articles of every description belonging to the 
United States, from the officers to whom they were issued, and make re- 
turns thereof to the proper departments. 

The ordnance and ammunition at Camp Covington will be immediately 
returned to the authorities from which they were received. 

Officers granting furloughs will keep a regular entry of all officers and 
men to whom those indulgences have been granted. All avoidable loss 
of arms, &c. will be placed to the account of officers who have receipted 
for them. 

The lieutenant-colonel commanding the 2d and 3d regiments, and all 
officers commanding detachments and corps, will direct muster and in- 
spection rolls to be made out without delay, preparatory to their discharge. 

By order of Brig. Gen. Floyd, commanding: 

Mark Hardin, 
Assis't Adj't Gent. 

CXIII. — GEN. JOHN HOUSTOUN McINTOSH* TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

The Refuge, April 2, 1815. 

Dear Sir: — A day or two after we left you, one of our carriage- 
horses took sick on the road and died. This accident, together with the 
badness of the roads, prevented us from reaching here until the latter 
part of last week. The bearer, (Mr. Saltonstall,) who, I believe, is a 
very good man, tells me that he intends living in your neighborhood; 
and being now on his way up, I embrace the opportunity of dropping you 
a line, — which I do the more readily as our mails, since the war, have 
been extremely irregular. 

The conduct of the British, (particularly of the officers,) both at St. 
Simon's and St. Mary's, exceeds even what you and I believed of them 
in flagitiousness. Nothing was of too little value to tempt them; and 
every thing was grasped, let it belong to friend or foe, widow or orphan. 
Mrs. Shaw, however, is an exception to this general rule. Cockburn, 
though her negroes were the first to join him, had them all returned to 
her, together with a quantity of cotton, some of which belonged to other 
persons. She also had influence enough to get her cousin Ray Sands's 
negroes also returned. The report of her being so distressed was only 
until the arrival of Cockburn. Shortly after this event, it is said, she was 
remarkably lively; and, if Cockburn was master of the house and every 
thing in it, she was certainly mistress. 

* Commander-in-chief of the "Patriots," who took possession of East Florida in 
1814, and maintained a quasi government for about twelve months at their camp, 
within a few miles of St. Augustine. The Gen. John Mcintosh under whose orders 
Gen. Blackshear served was a different personage, though a relative of the other. 

Vol. I.— 30 



466 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

The account of the Patriots having killed a great many of them is 
correct. The officers found it necessary, after they were fired upon from 
two bluffs, to douse their epaulettes and all the marks of an officer. 
Cockburn was so enraged when his six boats returned, with two-thirds of 
their crews killed and wounded, that he made a signal for all the boats 
and marines to come from the vessels, and swore that he would burn St. 
Mary's and every house between the Altamaha and St. Mary's. But the 
arrival of Maj. Burke with the account of peace prevented him from 
putting his threat in execution. I have no doubt but that he would 
have burnt St. Mary's; but I am confident that you would have pre- 
vented him from trusting his men any distance out of their boats. 

I am anxious to hear what your brother has done with ; and I 

sincerely hope he will agree to no compromise after the unworthy treat- 
ment he has received. Pray, remember me affectionately to the major, 
and tell him I never think of him without gratitude for his hospitality 
and attention, and that I have taught all my children to play "Mau- 
rice," which I call, after him, " Blackshear," — a name certainly as 
pretty as that of " Maurice." Remember me also kindly to your brother 
the colonel, and tell him I have not yet seen Mr. Sands, but will certainly 
attend to his business as soon as I do. 

Our seasons have been in this part of the country uncommonly wet. 
I hope they have not been so with you. We had, a night or two ago, 
cold almost enough for a frost. 

Mrs. Mcintosh and my daughters are all well, and join with me in kind 
and best remembrance to your amiable lady, Mrs. Bryan, Miss Bush, and 
yourself. We all expect that Miss Bush will shortly lose her name, 
though not her verdure. That she and you all may never change your 
situation but for the better is the wish, my dear sir, of your sincere friend 
and obedient servant, John H. McIntosh. 

CXIV. — TIMOTHY BARNARD (INDIAN CHIEF) TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Flint River, December 2, 1815.* 

Sir: — I received yours last evening by Mr. Volice and Mr. Jas. Joice, 
and fully observed the contents. I send on your letters this morning to 
the Agency, by express to Gen. Mcintosh. The general, I expect, got to 
Fort Mitchell last evening. I had some information yesterday by a red 
man which I believe is true, — that is, that the British have erected their 
forts near the forks of these rivers, and one down at Forbes's Store, and 
that there is a number of British landed there. It is reported by the 
red people from that quarter that the red people do not wish to join the 
British in these wars. The Chehaw people — near where you will arrive 
on Flint River — are all inclined to be peaceable and assist our army. A 
man arrived from there yesterday, requesting me to send the chiefs a few 
lines to show you when you arrive on Flint River, that you may know 
your friends. The chiefs of Chehaw say they will be glad to furnish you 
with all the beef and hogs they have to spare, and render you any other 

* This is evidently a wrong date. It must have been intended for 1814, because 
on 2d December, 1815, Gen. Blackshear was on his farm, having discharged his com- 
mand in March, 1815, soon after peace with Great Britain was proclaimed. The 
letter is given as a proof of the fidelity of the respected author of it, who was known 
as the "white man's friend." 



/ 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 467 

service in their power. I expect one of my sons will be down there, to 
assist you, that speaks our language. 

CXV. — JOEL CRAWFORD* TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Milledgeville, September 15, 1818. 

Dear Sir: — By yesterday's mail I received from the Secretary of War, 
in answer to inquiries made pursuant to your request, the communication 
contained on the first page of this sheet. Though far from being satis- 
factory, it is about such a reply as might have been expected. I have 
ascertained by much experience that the gentlemen about the city all 
have a way of their own in doing business which is a great deal more 
convenient to themselves than any one else. I am sorry the Secretary 
has so soon fallen into those habits of evasion which have ever been 
fashionable in the city of Washington. 

However, sir, if you will draw up an explicit letter to Mr. Calhoun, as 
nearly conformable to his already-expressed wishes as practicable, I will 
take charge of it, and, on arriving at Washington, press a proper attention 
to it. 

I am, very respectfully, yours, 

J. Crawford. 

[enclosure.] 

War Department, August 2, 1818. 

Sir : — I have received your letter of the 19th of July. To obtain 
satisfactory information, it will be necessary to furnish the names of the 
commanding-officers of the respective companies, because, in some cases, 
the rations were issued complete, and in others the provisions were 
delivered in bulk and issued by the quartermasters. 

I have the honor to be your most obedient servant, 

J. C. Calhoun. 
Hon. Joel Crawford. 

CXVI. — GOV. RABUN TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 
Executive Department, Georgia, Milledgeville, June 30, 1819. 

Sir : — I have been this day waited upon by , who has deposited 

in this office a petition or declaration containing a number of exceptions 

to the proceedings of a court-martial held in , on the 15th of last 

month, before which he was accused of sundry high crimes and mis- 
demeanors, which were alleged to have been committed by him while in 
the public service, in the months of March and April, 1818. It appears 

from the statement of that he has been oppressed and borne down 

by the strong arm of power, contrary to the Constitution, laws, and usages 
of our country, and on charges and specifications which he alleges to be 
frivolous and unfounded. 

Being desirous to hear both sides on this subject, I have deemed it my 
duty to call on you to furnish me a certified copy of the whole proceedings 

of the court-martial held in for the trial of Captain , of the 

troop of cavalry. 

The reasons which have iuduced me to adopt this course are, that if the 

* Then a Representative in Congress. 



468 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

charges exhibited against Captain were for any misconduct which 

occurred while in actual service, then, according to the 29th section of the 
militia-law, the proceedings of the court must receive the approbation of 
the commander-in-chief before the sentence can be complete. But, if the 
charge was only for an " offence against military orders and decorum," 
then, according to the 27th section of the militia-law, the approbation of 
the brigadier-general was sufficient to perfect the sentence. 

You will probably view this as a novel proceeding ; but I can assure 
you that the duty I owe to the State, and the respect I have for your 
uniform conduct, has urged me to pursue this course, in order that 
impartial justice may be administered, and, if possible, to arrest the public 
clamor that has been excited respecting this decision. 

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Wm. Rabun. 

cxvii. — gen. blacksiiear to his son james.* 

Milledgeville, May 14, 1821. 

Dear James : — I again write you by Mr. Golding, although I have 
written by Major Meriwether, and by whom I have sent you some money. 
I expect to leave this place to-morrow for home. I have heard that your 
mother is yet complaining of the asthma. The rest of the family are 
getting better. 

Wheu you receive the money, take care that you do not spend or other- 
wise dispose of it only as you are obliged to do. Be sure to keep out of 
bad company, and do not be persuaded to do any thing that is improper. 
Be advised by your cousinsf and those gentlemen I recommended you to 
in my last. Never place yourself in a situation to deny what you know 
to be true, and always have a strict eye on what will support a good cha- 
racter. You can hardly conceive how easy it is for a youth to injure his 
character, which is rarely ever recovered ; that is, if you should do any 
thing with other boys, you will all be implicated, and when you become a 
man it will not be forgotten. If you conduct yourself well, you will 
always be respected by good people. I have great solicitude for your 
welfare; and, having written you so lately, have nothing more. 

Your loving father, 

D. Blackshear. 

CXVIII. — GEN. BLACKSIIEAR TO HIS SON JAMES. 

Springfield,! October 4, 1821. 

My dear James : — I received yours of the 7th ult., and am glad to 
find that you are pursuing your studies with a knowledge of the necessity 

* James Hamilton Blackshear, the eldest son of the general, was at the time a 
student of Franklin College. He afterward married a daughter of Gen. John 
Floyd, and represented the county of Laurens several times in the Legislature. He 
was highly intelligent, and was much beloved for his noble qualities. He died in 
1845, leaving many friends, who will ever cherish his memory with the warmest 
affection. This letter, and other letters from the same source, though written of 
course in all the freedom of privacy, are given to the public for the excellent advice 
they contain for young men. 

f The two brothers, Thomas Jefferson Bryan and Blackshear Bryan, of Twiggs 
county, both since deceased. 

J The name of Gen. Blackshear's residence in Laurens county. 



DAVID ELACKSHEAR. 469 

of having an education. Continue to persevere, and remember the advice 
I have ever tried to impress on your mind, — that you are now laying the 
foundation of a character by which you will be judged all the rest of your 
life. 

I have no doubt but you have your anxieties to see your mother and 
little brothers, and even amusements about home. But learning is worth 
more than these little temporary amusements, and particularly wheu you 
can hear from home so ofteu as you do. Our election is over, — myself 
for Senate, Major Thomas and Mr. Horn for the House. 

* * :f= * >i< ^< * # 

My respects to Jefferson, and tell him I hope he will continue at school 
until he gets an education, and particularly while you and he can progress 
as fast as the rest of your schoolmates. 

I have it in contemplation to let you come home and see us next 
vacation ; but do not let the thought of it interfere with your studies. 
Press on as fast as possible to the last day. Make my compliments to 
Mr. Moore, and tell him I should be glad he would write me at times 
when he can conveniently do so, as I am anxious to hear from that quarter 
more than you have an opportunity of knowing. 

CXIX. — COL. E. F. TATTNALL TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Whitemarsh Island, October 16, 1821. 

Dear General: — A vacancy has occurred in the station of Brigadier- 
General of the First Brigade. Cols. Daniell and Harden, of Chatham, 
and Col. Dunham, of Mcintosh county, are the candidates to fill it. The 
former I wish particularly to recommend to your support. I do not 
know whether you are personally acquainted with each other; but, as I 
have long and intimately been acquainted with him, I can, icith confidence, 
assure you that he is brave, chivalric, and gentlemanly; that he is 
ambitious of military distinction and loves the soldier's character. In 
short, that he is all which you, as an old soldier, could wish a man to be. 

I do not mean to disparage the claims of either of the other candidates ; 
but were I acting under oath, and had I to give a vote to either, it should 
conscientiously be given to Col. Daniell. With Col. Dunham I have been 
but slightly acquainted, but I have always seen in him the evideuce of 
his deservedly high and respectable standing in his county. With Col. 
Harden I have been intimate, and my esteem and respect for him is 
great; but my decided preference is to Col. Daniell. 

I will also, as I am on the subject of elections, suggest to you that a 
gentleman of the Savannah bar (N. P. Bond, Esq.) will be a candidate 
for the office of solicitor-general at the ensuing session, vice William Law, 
Esq., resigned. He is a fine, promising young Georgian, and his talents 
and worth are inferior to none in the State. His opponents are Levi 
S. D'Lyon and J. C. Nicoll, Esqs. 

From all I can learn, our election goes on well. God grant we may 
succeed ! Our State has been too long deluded by the factious and design- 
ing. It is time for us to restore it to that rank in the Union which it 
ought to hold and which the rancor of party-spirit has so long removed it 
from. Col. Troup, it would seem, must be elected ; but I hope we shall 
continue active and alert on our post, for ideal security may defeat us 
again, as at the last election. 

I hope to see you at the opening of the session, as I shall probably be 
in Milledgeville before I travel to the North. Pray communicate such 



470 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

part of this letter as relates to Col. Daniell and N. P. Bond, Esqs., to your 
Representatives, and beg them to excuse the liberty which I take as a 
strauger. 

Be assured, dear general, that I am, with the highest esteem and 
respect, your friend and obedient servant, 

Edw'd F. Tattnall. 

CXX. — COL. TATTNALL TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Savannah, November 8, 1821. 

Dear General : — I with much pleasure avail myself of an opportunity 
of introducing to you my very intimate friend, who was in the same 
service with yourself during the late war, and whose character as a gentle- 
man, a man of talents, and a soldier will, I am sure, make him a pleasing 
acquaintance, in your estimation. 

Captain Hunter, the gentleman alluded to and the bearer of this intro- 
ductory letter, is the present Cashier of the United States Bank. His 
official duties carry him to Milledgeville. Of these I have nothing to 
communicate, as I know nothing of them. I am, however, desirous of 
making him feel easy during his stay in Milledgeville, and I know no 
one who would feel more for a stranger than yourself. 

Accept, my dear general, the reassurance of my highest regard and 
esteem. 

Respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Edw'd F. Tattnall. 

CXXI. — PETER CRAWFORD* TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Sunday morning, Dec. 9, 1821. 

Dear General : — I know you are in the habit of visiting Col. 
Moughon. He Las invited me to dine with him. This is the only day 
that I can command or call my own. Will you honor me this day with 
your company to the colonel's 'I If you will, any hour that may be agree- 
able to you to set out will suit me. Let me know by the boy whether I 
shall have the pleasure of your company, and the hour. 

Your friend, &c, 

Peter Crawford. 

cxxii. — gen. blackshear to his son james. 

Speingfield, March 22, 1822. 

Dear James : — I have only received one letter from you since you left 
me, and this is the first that I have sent you. You seem to have forgotten 
that I required you to write every fortnight. 

You ask my approbation for you to recite privately, for a few weeks, 

* Long time a Senator from Columbia county, — a man of superior intelligence and 
marked integrity of character. He was usually Chairman of the Committee on 
Finance, and in that position afforded much light on the revenue and objects of 
appropriation by the Legislature. He was the father of the Hon. George W. 
Crawford, formerly Governor of Georgia and Secretary of War under the adminis- 
tration of President Taylor. Col. Moughon, referred to in Mr. Crawford's note, 
was a planter in the vicinity of Milledgeville, of extensive wealth and hospitality. 
He was accidentally killed a few years ago by being thrown from a buggy while 
riding with his son-in-law, Joseph Bond, Esq., in the city of Macon. 






DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 471 

that you might get ahead of your class. I shall not object to your pro- 
gressing as fast as your capacity will admit, and if it is thought to be of 
advantage to you to do so. But my fears are that you will not be 
studious, and pay money to get ahead without knowing what is necessary. 
I wish you to learn, and not merely get forward in high classes without 
knowing what you ought to have studied. If you have been as attentive, 
why are you not as far advanced as Jefferson Bryan ? You were both in 
one class at first. It is in vain for me to write you and encourage you if 
you do not strive. I once more renew my advice by saying that education 
is for your own advantage, and if you neglect it will be your own loss. I 
shall never think money wasted if you only progress well. 

I have had great misfortunes since you left here. Jack took sick and 
died after three weeks' illness; and yesterday Mike got upon the gin- 
wheel, and it carried him under the piece that holds the baud-wheel and 
killed him. So you see that two most valuable boys are gone. 

CXXIII. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO HIS SON JAMES. 

Springfield, April 12, 1821. 

My dear James: — Yours of the 29th ult. has just come to hand, it 
being the third I have received. I am quite anxious for your welfare, and 
uneasy for fear of the measles and the fever that exist at Atheus. But 
diseases prevail in all countries, to which mankind are subject. An all- 
wise Providence is your only protector. 

We have generally good health here. Your mother has had some 
symptoms of the asthma, but is better, and as well as common. Your 
brother William* has a bad cold, which I was afraid was symptomatic of 
asthma. He is now better, but not so well as he has been through the 
winter. 

I am much pleased to hear that your teachers approve of your progress 
in learning, and that your cousins improve also, with whom, I hope, you 
will cherish harmony and friendly intercourse, aud also with all your 
schoolmates who conduct themselves with propriety. Avoid the company 
of all that do otherwise, and try to act in such a way as to merit the 
approbation and respect of all men of respectability. Envy none ; avoid 
quarrels and disputation as much as possible. But, if any should unavoid- 
ably occur, be sure that you are in the right ; and, when you are sure that 
you are so, shrink from none from /ear, regardless of consequences. I 
am sorry that none of my nephews think enough of me to write me even 
one letter since Blackshear left there. I am engaged in getting in my 
new ground. 






Make my compliments to Doctor Waddel, with whom I have some 
acquaintance, and request him when at leisure to write me on your 
improvement. 

CXXIV. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO HIS SON JAMES. 

Springfield, May 5, 1822. 

Dear James : — I received yours of the 13th ult., in which you 
informed me of your indisposition from measles. I am solicitous to hear 
of your final recovery. 

* William Thweatt Blackshear died in 1838, aged thirty-one years. Asthma was 
quite established in his constitution. 



472 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

It would seem as if you expected to enter college in June. You know 
how anxious I am for your welfare, and it affords me much pleasure to 
hear of your advancing as fast as any of your schoolmates, But I wish 
you to be perfect as far as you go, if it takes you a little longer time. 
That, however, I must leave with your teacher and yourself. Wheu you 
enter college, I should be glad, if consistent with the rules, that you could 
continue to board with Mr. Moore ; but you must conform to the rules, 
and be sure not to join any party that commit riots. Often reflect that 
you are now laying the foundation of your future greatness : a misstep 
may injure you as long as you live. 

We have had more rain than ever, and a greater freshet than you ever 
saw. The river was nearly to the top of my little mill-door. It carried 
off my fence and destroyed forty acres of cotton which was planted. 

:jc >fc % ^ :): :j: ^ 

My sugarcane has not come up well, and I begin to fear it will not 
come soon enough to make much this year. What I made last is of a 
superior quality of brown sugar. I wish I could send you some to show 
the up-country people what can be done here. We have a great prospect 
of fruit, particularly peaches. 

Your mother has been very unwell with the asthma, but is now in 
pretty good health, and will be uneasy until she hears that you have quite 
recovered from the measles. You are apprized' that to expose yourself 
after you appear to be well is dangerous : you will therefore be guarded 
against taking cold or overheating yourself for some time after you think 
you are well. 

CXXV. — JOHN ELLIOTT* TO GEN. BLACKSIIEAR. 

Philadelphia, September 4, 1822. 

My dear Sir : — After a rough passage of seven days, we landed in 
New York. I found this State, as usual, much agitated by factions. 
Mr. Calhoun's friends are making violent efforts here to weaken Mr. 
Crawford's influence, in the vain hope of securing the vote of this great 
State in support of their favorite. They have so far succeeded as to have 
seduced from his engagements to advocate Mr. Crawford the editor of 
"The Patriot," and turned his press in favor of Mr. Calhoun. But this 
shameful defection on the part of the editor has already deprived him of 
the patronage of the principal Republicans of the city of New York, and 
will very shortly consign the paper to deserved insignificance. The efforts 
of this press have produced no unfavorable impressions on the public 
sentiment. New York and the great body of Republicans are decidedly 
friendly to Mr. Crawford's success. Connecticut is vacillating; but I 
have the most positive assurances from my friends there that she will 
come out in due time for us. 

Mr. Crawford's most violent political enemy, Mr. Edwards, has been 
left out of Congress in the late elections in Illinois ; and two of the Repre- 
sentatives who were last winter opposed to him have recently advocated 

* Hon. John Elliott was a Senator in Congress from Georgia from 1819 to 1825. 
This letter bears upon its face evidence that it was not intended for the public eye ; 
yet, as curiously speculative, it is submitted as so much history of the state of parties 
at a memorable epoch. Similar letters no doubt circulate among political leaders in 
every important canvass without affecting the propriety of the candidates. All tho 
public men named in the letter are dead. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAE. 473 

his election before the people. From Maine, New Hampshire, Massa- 
chusetts, and Vermont we shall obtain in caucus a much greater support 
than our enemies are aware of; and I think we may safely calculate on 
twenty votes from this section of the nation. In caucus, New York may 
be depended on for twenty-eight votes. New Jersey is now much divided, 
but will certainly give us six votes. The people of Pennsylvania are 
evidently in favor of Gen. Jackson ; but, as they have generally admitted 
the necessity of supporting the caucus candidate, the friends of Mr. 
Crawford wink at their present predilections, knowing that the general 
cannot be nominated, and believing Mr. Crawford must ultimately receive 
the vote as the caucus candidate. In the caucus, however, we shall 
receive from this State seven votes at least. Delaware is with us. Mary- 
laud is not fixed, but will surely lend us her support with five votes. 
Mr. Crawford's strength, then, in the caucus may be fairly thus estimated, 
— viz. : 

From New England, 20 votes ; from New York, 28 ; New Jersey, 6 ; 
Pennsylvania, 7; Delaware, 8; Maryland, 5; Virginia, 24; North Caro- 
lina, 15 ; South Carolina, 2 certainly, and, should Mr. Calhoun withdraw, 
or be dropped, 7 votes; Georgia, 9; Ohio, 1; Indiana, 2; Illinois, 2; 
Mississippi, 2 ; Tennessee, 2 at least, — making an aggregate of one 
hundred and twenty-eight votes, which will be a majority of the Repub- 
lican members. And should any of the other candidates withdraw, or be 
dropped by their friends, the number will receive considerable accession. 
For no combination of interest can be formed to prejudice the standing 
and prospects of Mr. Crawford : the West can never be induced to 
support Mr. Adams, nor will the Republicans of the East, in the absence 
of Mr. Adams, prefer Mr. Clay or Gen. Jackson to Mr. Crawford. 

I consider Mr. Crawford's success, then, as more than probable; and, 
in forming this opinion, I think I have not suffered my wishes, strong as 
they are, to influence my judgment. 

In conformity to your wishes expressed in your letter first received, I 
have given you the preceding view of the Presidential question. As our 
success greatly depends on a caucus-nomination, it will be proper to 
conceal from our adversaries our real strength until the moment of trial. 
Our friends in Georgia may be made acquainted with these facts, but they 
must be kept from the newspapers. 

Mr. Forsyth is here, and we improve every occasion to strengthen our 
friends and weaken our adversaries. Our situation enables us to act 
sometimes very efficiently in this regard. 

The prospect of Col. Troup's success is highly gratifying to me, and I 
hope no untoward circumstance may occur to lessen his well-deserved 
influence with the people. 

As it respects myself, I am quite disposed to leave the propriety of my 
re-election to the judgment of my friends. I was urged in the most 
flattering manner by those in the eastern district, whose opinions and 
wishes 1 greatly respected, not to leave public life at this time ; and, 
having been induced to ask for a re-election, I should be gratified by a 
libercd support. It is probable I may continue here until the meeting of 
Congress, occasionally visiting Jersey and the upper part of this State, as 
political appearances may render it necessary. And, although you are 
not fond of writing, I hope you will indulge me with an occasional 
letter. My correspondence is very extensive, and I write always in great 
haste. 



474 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

Offer my best regards to Col. Troup when you see him, and believe me 
most cordially your friend, J. Elliott. 

CXXVI. — GEN. BLACKSHEAR TO HIS SON JAMES. 

Springfield, February 26, 1824. 

My dear James : — I herewith enclose you twenty dollars for your 
ordinary expenses. I am not willing you should be out of money, but 
that you should know it is not to be wasted for things of no real benefit. 
To know how to lay out money is more difficult than to make it. So 
soon as you receive this, write me and acknowledge the receipt, that I may 
know the money is not lost. 

Your reasons for not having written me are not sufficient, as you might 
write beforehand, if it was a whole week. I should know things at the 
time you write. I wish you to take more pains in writing well, and not 
write so small and cramped a hand. Make your letters larger, and take 
pains to write and spell well. Continue your assiduity in your studies, 
that you may derive the whole benefit of the money I am paying and the 
time and privation you experience in getting your education ; and be sure 
to be able to leave that place with credit to yourself, which will add 
much to my happiness. 

Farewell, my son. D. Blacksiiear. 

CXXVII. — DR. MOSES WADDEL TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Athens, November 18, 1824. 

Dear Sir : — Yours of the 16th is received this morning, and for the 
expressions of friendship and confidence which it contains I feel much 
obliged to you. 

I am sincerely conscious that I have honestly exerted myself to do my 
duty since I have been here, and am sorry that I have not succeeded in 
pleasing all my fellow-citizens. I am sure I have done all that I could 
for the interest of the college, situated as I have always been since I came 
to the place ; and, though I will not venture to say that I have done all 
that very many could have done here, yet I do firmly believe that scarcely 
any other man would have done more, in the same time and circumstances. 

Had every man counselled and treated his son as you have treated yours 
here, many misrepresentations which have gone abroad would never have 
been heard. James has behaved well, and has been studious. He honors 
the laws : of course his standing is good in college, and in the village his 
character is fair, and his improvement in knowledge is very considerable. 
If he persist in the course he has observed during the past year, I confi- 
dently predict that he will be a good scholar, and an estimable, useful 
man, an honor to this institution, and a comfort to your declining years. 

I have paid all the money you sent me for his board and tuition, except 
$4 37 i, which I paid to him this evening. 

I now expect to remain here, in compliance with the request of the 
trustees and Senatus Academicus, during some part of the next year at 
least, — although such is my desire of peace and quietness that I would 
sincerely prefer retirement and repose in the evening of life. I do not 
wish to be in anybody's way. As I did not solicit the office, which is 
exceedingly arduous and responsible, I thank God, who has blessed my 
honest industry, I am not in such circumstances as to render it necessary 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 475 

that I should wish to remain in it against the will of any one who is 
opposed to my administration. 

Please present my respects to my old friend Peter Crawford, Esq. I 
do hope you will visit us shortly. I shall be glad to see or hear from you 
at any time, and am your assured friend, M. Waddel.* 

CXXVIII. — RICHARD HENRY WILDE TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Augusta, November 27, 1824. 

Dear General: — My friend, George W. Crawford, Esq., who will 
deliver you this letter, intends being a candidate for the office of attorney- 
general next session. 

Mr. Crawford studied with me, and is entirely deserving of the appoint- 
ment. His character, politics, and talents are altogether unexceptionable. 
May I beg you to assist him in extending his acquaintance among the 
members of the Legislature, in such a manner as may insure him the 
fairest prospect of success ? 

Believe me, very sincerely and respectfully, your friend and servant, 

K. H. Wilde. 

CXXIX. — REV. MOSES WADDEL TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Athens, January 21, 1825. 

Dear Sir : — Yours of the 8th is received, for which I thank you. Mr. 
Mitchell is a youth of superior scholarship and steady habits. I think he 
will exactly suit your purpose. But, as he has one study to prosecute yet 
in order to complete his course, I presume he can hardly be prevailed on 
to go before the Commencement. I am cordially desirous to promote his 
interests and your views in this case, which appear to me to be entirely 
compatible. 

My opinion is, that you would do well to visit this place yourself, in 
person, some time in February, before crop-season arrives. I am sure you 
could do much more toward succeeding in procuring a teacher, were you 
here a day or two yourself. Your son and other young friends would be 
glad to see you; and I am certain a number of your old ones would rejoice 
to see you under their roof. I can truly speak for one. 

Judge Clayton will go on the circuit about the middle of February. I 
greatly wish you could be here before he goes, for some weighty reasons. 
Some singular events have occurred here of late which are known to but 
a few. I wish to communicate them to you, but not by letter. 

Your son is doing well as usual. The students have generally returned, 
and about half a dozen new ones. I am unusually anxious to converse 
with you freely and at length on some interesting subjects. Do come, if 
you can ; and, if not, write as often as convenient. 

Very sincerely, your friend, 

M. Waddel. 



* President of Franklin College : elected to that office in 1819, and resigned in 
1829. Dr. Waddel was renowned as an educator of youth. Among his pupils 
were John C. Calhoun, William H. Crawford, William Lowndes, and George 
McDuffie, all of whom were men of the very highest order of intellect and who 
acquired imperishable fame. He died at the residence of his son, in Athens, in 
1840, at an advanced age. 



476 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

CXXX. — COL. SEABORN JONES TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Milledgeville, January 23, 1825. 

My dear Sir : — The subject* on which I am about to address you 
must form the best apology for troubling you; and the relations of friend- 
ship which have existed between us will best explain the reasons why 
this letter is addressed to you. 

The suit at present existing between Dr. Ridley and your brother 
Joseph is one which involves much property and no little feeling. At 
the last court of Laurens county, Major Walker suggested to me a desire 
that a settlement might be made between them, which would not only 
terminate the present suit but prevent any future litigation. This ac- 
corded so well with my own feelings that I immediately determined to 
use my utmost exertions to bring about so desirable an event. I say it 
accorded with my feelings; for I assure you I have, ever since I was 
engaged in the case, most ardently desired a settlement might be made 
which would save me the disagreeable necessity of discussing questions 
involving so much feeling as those connected with the prosecution and 
defence of the case. 

It is urged by Ridley, and must necessarily be by his counsel, that 
Joseph Blackshear had the most implicit confidence reposed in him by his 
brother Elijah ; that he placed his only child and daughter under his 
guardian care and protection, and died with an entire confidence that his 
only child would be taken care of and treated as though she were the 
child of Joseph himself; that, while living, they were as twin-brothers; 
and that Joseph is now attempting to take advantage of every quirk and 
quibble of the law to deprive this daughter of all, or the greater part, of 
her property. 

The defence which has been set up is, too, of the most odious character, 
and calculated to injure him; and the remarks upon that defence (I mean 
the doctrine of survivorship) must necessarily be most wounding to his feel- 
ings. All this I hoped we might be able to avoid, and that we might 
be able to make a settlement equally beneficial to both parties. 

By the will of your brother Elijah, Ridley's wife is entitled to fifteen 
thousand dollars of personal property, and land in proportion, on her in- 
termarriage, with interest from that time. If the counsel of your brother 
Joseph have acted with candor, they must have informed him that this 
was inevitable. The proportion of land equivalent to that sum of per- 
sonal property cannot be less than five thousand dollars, making together 
$20,000. To this add interest from the marriage (December 8, 1822) to 



* The bill in chancery filed by Archibald B. Ridley and his wife Harriet against 
Joseph Blackshear, as executor of Elijah Blackshear, deceased, pending which Mrs. 
Ridley died, and her husband subsequently, as administrator, recovered judgment 
for about twenty-five thousand dollars, which was collected. For some decision or 
ruling of the law in this case, Judge Moses Fort was arraigned before the Legisla- 
ture of Georgia, in 1827, by Col. Blackshear. A committee in the House of Repre- 
sentatives, of which the Hon. Charles Dougherty was chairman, heard evidence 
upon the charges, (habitual intoxication included,) and reported an address to the 
Governor recommending the removal of the judge from office, which passed in the 
House, but failed in the Senate for want of two-thirds, the constitutional majority 
required in such cases. Col. Jones was probably mistaken in his inference touching 
the "odious" defence setup by Col. Blackshear to the donation made by his bachelor- 
brother out of partnership-effects. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAK. 477. 

this time, 85000, makes twenty-five thousand dollars that he is now en- 
titled to. 

Upon the death of your brother, the remainder of the estate has to he 
divided into three parts, of which Ridley and wife are entitled to one- 
third. What is this worth ? The balance of the estate, (after deducting 
the legacy to Harriet of §15,000, &c.,) lands, negroes, and stock of all 
kinds, cannot be less than fifteen thousand dollars. Ridley says he can 
prove it to be worth thirty thousand. To this add the bank-stock in the 
Darien and United States Banks, the dividends, the yearly hire or value of 
the lands and ninety-one negroes, or profits arising from the plantations, 
which all know were under your brother Joseph's management, cannot be 
less than five thousaud dollars per year. 

Your brother Joseph has been advised, and, I presume, believes he will 
not have to account for the yearly value of the property. This is a mis- 
take. For although he has the right to lay out and dispose of it, yet, you 
will see, this power was given to him from the reliance Elijah had in his 
management and care, and that it must ultimately be accounted for when 
the general division takes place at his death. Now, for this contingent 
interest, Ridley, by my advice, and, I may say, persuasion, agreed to take 
five thousand dollars, making the whole sum to be paid hiin thirty thou- 
sand dollars. This was thought too high, and I was informed by Major 
Walker that twenty thousand dollars would be given. To this Ridley 
would not accede ; and I will be candid and say to you that while I would 
not interpose my advice; voluntarily, to permit his taking any sum, yet, on 
being asked, I could not advise him to take that sum, believing it so far 
helow what he had a right to claim. 

I have written fully and freely to you, not as counsel for Ridley, but as 
a friend to you and your brother, and from an anxious desire to have the 
case settled and myself saved the necessity of discussing questions which 
must wound the feelings of my friends. I have no doubt you will duly 
appreciate my motives. If you think, with me, it will be best for your 
brother Joseph to settle on those terms, you will endeavor to bring it 
about. If you do not, you will excuse my troubling you on the subject. 

My brother is getting better. My family is well. The Governor is 
mending. Accept for your family my best wishes, and believe me yours, 
sincerely, Seaborn Jones. 

CXXXI. RICHARD HENRY WILDE TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

House of Representatives, February 9, 1825. 
Dear Sir : — I enclose you the state of the vote on the Presidential 
election. The result is to be attributed to the union of the friends of Mr. 
Clay with those of Mr. Adams. 

Very sincerely, yours, 

R. H. Wilde. 

[enclosure.] 

NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER— Extra. 

Wednesday, February 9, 1825, half-past 8 o'clock p. m. 

The votes of the Electors of President and Vice-President of the United 
States were this day counted out iu the presence of the Senate and 



478 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

House of Representatives ; when it appeared that, for President and Vice- 
President of the United States, the votes were as follows : — 

FOR PRESIDENT. FOR VICE-PRESIDENT. 



u a 

moo 



s 

a 



2 § S* 



<! O l-a o 

Maine 9 

New Hampshire.. 8 , 

Massachusetts 15 , 

Rhode Island 4 

Connecticut 8 

Vermont 7 

New York 26 5 1 4 

New Jersey 8 

Pennsylvania 28 

Delaware 12 

Maryland 3 17 

Virginia 24 

North Carolina... 15 

South Carolina... 11 

Georgia 9 

Kentucky 14 7 

Tennessee 11 

Ohio 16 

Louisiana 2 3 

Mississippi 3 

Indiana 5 

Illinois 10 2 

Alabama 5 

Missouri 3 



a 



o 

-G 

a 
O 


a 
o 
o 

as 


a 

o 

X 

- 


^6 

t-l 

c 


o 


1 

a 
t-l 



a 

a 

> 


9 









1 

















7 





15 





Q 
O 








8 






















7 





29 








7 








8 

















28 

















1 











9 





10 





1 














24 














15 

















11 
































9 


7 








7 








11 


























16 








5 

















3 

















5 

















3 

















5 























3 












Total 84 41 99 37 182 24 13 30 2 9 

It appeared, therefore, that, for President, there was no choice by the 
Electors; and that for the office of Vice-President, John C. Calhoun, 
having a majority of votes, was duly elected. 

The Senate having retired, the House of Representatives proceeded to 
arrange itself into States, and, at three o'clock, a balloting took place for 
President of the United States, which resulted as follows : — 

For John Quincy Adams 13 votes. 

For Andrew Jackson 7 votes. 

For William II. Crawford 4 votes. 

24 

So John Quincy Adams was duly elected President of the United States 
for four years from the fourth day of March next. 

It is understood that the votes of the several States were given as 
follows : — 



DAVID BLACKSHEAK. 479 

For John Quincy Adams. — Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, 
Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, New York, Maryland, Ohio, Ken- 
tucky, Illinois, Missouri, Louisiana. 

For Andrew Jackson. — New Jersey, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, 
Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Indiana. 

For William H. Crawford. — Delaware, Virginia, North Carolina, 
Georgia. 

CXXXII. — RICHARD H. WILDE TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Washington City, February 20, 1825. 

Dear Sir : — From what you have already heard, you may well imagine 
we have fallen on evil times. There is no hope for the Republic during 
the next four years : if it outlives that time, and has stiength enough 
remaining to shake off its doctors and its diseases, its constitution may 
be restored. But I have my doubts. So insensible to every thing but 
the promotion of their own selfish views of interest or ambition are 
many of our public men of the present time, so open and unblushing 
the traffic in influence which we have seen established, that either they 
must be signally punished, or the people will lose — nay, must have 
already lost — all belief in political honesty, and consider all difference of 
party as a mere pretext to cover the struggle for office between outs 
and ins. 

The coalition-ministry is not yet certainly announced. Clay will be 
Secretary of State, Mr. Cheves of the Treasury, if he will accept. Mr. 
Wirt and Mr. Southard, it is thought, will be retained. Mr. Webster must 
be in some way provided for, — but how, is the difficulty. The holy politi- 
cal alliance are afraid of bringing so decided a Federalist into office. He 
would like to be Speaker of the House, into which Mr. Adams's friends 
cannot put him. Forsyth, or McLane of Delaware, will be in his way. 
This much is certain : let the materials be compounded as they may, we 
have nothing to hope from the General Government. Our claims for 
militia-services and for the removal of the Indians are not treated with 
common decency. A refusal to do us justice is accompanied with a careless 
contempt of our rights, and of the obligations of the Union to us, such 
as no man would use who had the least regard for the reputation of this 
Government. 

Rely upon it, we are not far from cpuestions which must rouse Southern 
feeling, if it is not dead. We shall have before long proposals for eman- 
cipation. A committee of the House of Representatives have already 
made a report justifying the treaty of Mr. Adams yielding the right of 
search; and the House, in spite of all opposition, has ordered three thou- 
sand copies to be printed. 

The Southern States are already the Ireland of the Union. I pray 
God that ere long we may not realize all the bitter consequences of the 
policy which has made us so. 

Farewell, my dear sir : remember me to our friends in Laurens, and 
believe me, sincerely, yours, R. H. Wilde. 



480 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

CXXXIII. — M. B. LAMAR* TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Head-Quarters, Milledgeville, March 4, 1825. 
(Circular.) 

The commander-in-chief presents his compliments to the major-generals 
and brigadier-generals commanding the militia of the State, and invites 
them to pay their respects to Gen. Lafayette, either at Savannah, Augusta, 
or Milledgeville, as may best suit their convenience. He will probably be 
present at either place, and will take pleasure in presenting them to the 
general. 

By the commander-in-chief: 

Mirabeau B. Lamar, 

Secretary. 

CXXXIV. — HENRY KING TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Allentown, Lehigh County, Penna., October 16, 1825. 

Dear Sir : — My brother, David R. King, who will hand you this, is 
about to go to Milledgeville to attend to the claimf which I, last winter, 
brought before the Legislature of Georgia. You are so well known for 
your love of justice that I am led to hope you will still look upon the 
claim with a favorable eye. 

I cannot go on to attend to it this winter myself; and, indeed, I have 
already suffered severely in my attempts to recover it. Georgia feels 
how hard it is to have justice refused her; and I am sure she would not 
willingly refuse justice to an individual whose rights are entirely in her 
power. 

Believe me, with sentiments of the greatest regard, yours, &c, 

Henry King. 



CXXXV. — C. B. STRONG TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Irwinton, October 19, 1825. 

Dear Sir : — We have fought the good tight and kept the faith, and, 
thank God, we obtain a good reward. The honor and rights of Georgia 
are sustained. 

It having fallen to my humble lot to take the bulls by the horns, [Gaines 

and ,] I cannot tell you how much I am gratified. They boast of 

a legislative majority; but, with prudent management, we can disappoint 
the certificate-and-affidavit faction in that respect also. I am unencum- 
bered with office, or the desire or expectation of office, and will meet you 



* He espoused the cause of Texas in 1835, commanded the cavalry at the bat- 
tle of San Jacinto, April 21, 1830, and by his impetuous charge decided the con- 
test in a few minutes. He advised the execution of Santa Anna when the latter 
was taken prisoner by the Texians. Gen. Lamar was the first Vice-President 
and the second President of the Republic. His courage and genius have fully 
established his fame as the hero-poet. 

-j- The nature of this claim does not appear in the correspondence, this being the 
only letter found relating to it. It may, perhaps, appear in the Journals of the 
Legislature for 1824 and 1825 ; but, as the author of this memoir has no copy of 
these on hand, he can only suggest that it possibly referred to Continental vioncy, or 
some special service rendered the State without the authority of law or contract. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 481 

at Milledgeville, and exert my feeble powers to sustain our good cause 
and virtuous administration. 

Yours, with cordial respect, &c, 

C. B. Strong. 

CXXXVI. — DR. JAMES PERRY TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Tattnall, November 2, 1825. 
gut : — I beg leave to introduce to your notice Mr. , a Repre- 
sentative in the Legislature from this county. He is a new member, and 
will require such aid as you can bestow on him. He will thankfully 
acknowledge the favor, and, in my opinion, will support the present ad- 
ministration and the officers of Government who served the present year 
with fidelity. And, from party prejudice, he will not (unless led away) 
advance any others. 

I have the honor to be your most obedient, 

Jas. Perry. 

cxxxvii. — charles harris* to gen. blackshear. 

Savannah, October 21, 1826. 

My dear Sir : — I address you as an old friend, and that on a subject 
I never expected to write about. I am a candidate for the appointment 
of Judge of the Court of Oyer and Terminer located in this city. Judge 
Nicoll, who has held the office for the last three or four years, will again 
offer at the election to take place at the ensuing meeting of the Legis- 
lature. He is a gentleman of respectability and integrity, and I make no 
personal opposition to him. But he is young, and at the bar, and I am 
old, and going out of it, and the judgeship would benefit me, not being 
rich. 

I have served in several offices and performed many public duties in 
Savannah without fee or reward, for twenty-five years past, and therefore 
hope that my claims at this election will not be viewed as frivolous or 
intrusive. I am not acquainted with the members of the Legislature of 
the West ; and, if you feel inclined to serve me, I shall be grateful for 
your aid among your friends, such as Gen. Wimberly, Mr. Lawson,"j" and 
others. I am, my dear sir, respectfully, your old friend, 

C. Harris. 

CXXXYIII. — COL. RICHARD A. BLOUNT TO GEN. BLACKSHEAR. 

Milledgeville, October 30, 1826. 
Dear Sir : — Since my return from the Chattahoochee River, I have re- 
peatedly thought of writing to you. The time draws near when the 



* Mr. Harris was a native of England, educated in France, and removed to Georgia 
in 1788, residing at Savannah until his death, March 17, 1827. He was a profound 
jurist and estimable man. 

■j- Col. Roger Lawson, for many years a Representative from Twiggs county. 
He served as a major in the army with Gen. Blackshear, and his name appears in 
the official despatches. His social and benevolent nature betrayed him into acts of 
familiarity with the private soldiers of his command in the intervals of duty, for 
which offence (forbidden by military discipline) he was arrested and tried by a 
court-martial under the orders of Col. Patton. The evidence plainly established his 
guilt of uniform kindness of heart, attention to the sick, and an occasional glass of 
grog with the healthy. On his return home, these charges, so fully sustained, at 
once secured him an extensive popularity, which continued until his death in 1830. 
He was the father of the Hon. Andrew Lawson, late one of the Judges of the Cir- 
cuit Court of Louisiana. 

Vol. I.— 31 



/ 



-l v l2 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

- of the Oconee Navigation Bhonld make another 

rt. I begin to tiro in public business : and if we could close what we 

have on hand, and turn it over to thi B rd of Internal Improvement, I 

am willing to resign it to them. Or, if you see any way that we can pro- 

ublic interest. I am yet williug to try ; or I am von- willing I 
decline all. 

I wish yon had continued one year more in the Senate, as our old friend 

Crawford is out. 1 expect : a town the first week and absent the 

rod week of the session. We claim the majority in the S . and iu 

the House Oi Representatives also: but I see Bartlett claims tl ~:rength 

in Senate. 

Old - plel ly stringhalted and spavined, aud. with pr 

management this session, I think he will never recover. Prudence and 
moderation in our ranks will establish the Republican party. Very few 
alterations will suffii-e this >n. — some change in the peuiteutiarv, 

and enough to turn th - tl Darierj Bank, in Mcintosh county, &c. 

I fear the internal improveuM at is 1 h out rather too far. aud in 

tho • • ng pi .-. though I know n : what the board is engaged on :.: this 
time. Write me by return-mail, if practicable, whether you will be up. 

1 am. dear sir, sincerely yours, 
R. A. Blount. 

P.S — Col Til. ill '. is in town. 

&XIX.— PETER CRAWFORD TO QEN. BLACKSHKAB. 

CltBIA, July - 1826 

Mr dear Friend: — 1 Ime contemplated renewing our 

tance and fi -ummon 

igh 1 perform this act of friendship until to-day: and i 
I have ii. tl ew or inter* - to commuuicate. I cau only say that 

since I s.iw you last I have en; like an old blockhead, 

suffer my nam ntinue before the public ; but I believe, my dear 

general, it does not arise from vanity or ambition. 

lam :-u-k and disg th Milledgeville and legislating, but my 

friends cannot, or will not, consent to my retiring to private life; and, 
although it i- against my interest, wishes, and inclinations, yet somehow 
or other I cannot mus enough to say no to my friends and 

manifest myself firm. I Bensibly begin to feel a burden. 

I Beldom leave home : but I am informed that both parties iu this county 
have a full ticket. Our friends. I understand, arc sanguine, and have no 
doubt that the whole Troup ticket will prevail. 1'.. ry thing in this 
wise world is uncertain; and the negro t when he - iys, " White 

man is very uncertain." From all appearances, we Bhall succeed. It is 

I that, by deaths, rem. . sentiments of a number 

: our citizens, t at the • rmiuate in 

r of th;- Troup tic": 

Our Judge is cau sing i g up opposition to the 

Tr lUpers, begging and soliciting in Is in the circuit to continue 

him in office. II.- has 1 in this county and Richmond. I 

trust . S others pe pie will remember his honor in November next. 
He cannot, I think, get a hall tes bis 

It is unph sant to £ - f our friends coming out f r C I gl -- 

I cannot see how the evil can be correct' '.. Every wo k, almost, we see 

announced u public papers It' there is an in- 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 483 

terference with the view to their withdrawing from the contest, it will 
give offence to the individual and his friends. If they go on and are dis- 
appointed, they will change their political friends with their defeat. I 
can see no other way for us than to look on and let them pursue their own 
course. But I fear this folly and vanity will result in the election of one 

or more Federalists. , I hear, has withdrawn, but holds on, and 

the ClarJeites will not let so favorable an opportunity escape them. I 
look out every day to see half a dozen of their vagabonds announced for 

Congress. Old or his son-in-law, , I calculate, will soon be 

announced. 

William H. Torrance, Esq., is now with me, and will take this letter to 
Milledgeville. He tells me that he has recently seen you, and that you 
enjoy fine health. Believe me, my dear friend, I am gratified to hear 
that your health has improved. When I saw you last, you appeared to be 
in a rapid decline, and I had doubts whether I should ever have the plea- 
sure of seeing you again. I now anticipate the pleasure in November 
once more to take j*ou cordially by the hand. 

I have the fullest confidence in Mr. Monroe, your Senator. He is a 
fine, decisive man ; but he does not carry with him into the Senate the 
talent, knowledge of business, and influence that you have so long exer- 
cised for the interest and benefit of the State. Believe me, general, this 
is not flattery. It is the honest conviction of a friend who, I persuade 
myself you have long believed, flattered no man. Your health is now 
restored ; and, if you were not announced by your friends for Elector, I 
should certainly press you — and strongly, too — once more to come into the 
Senate, at all events. I hope and trust you will yield in 1829 to the 
wishes of your friends, and come into the Senate. From long experience 
I find I cannot emancipate myself from my country and my friends. The 
latter will force me upon the county until, from old age or crime, I shall 
be rejected. But so long as I continue in the Legislature it will afford 
me much pleasure to support your wise measures and follow you as an 
old veteran and file-leader. 

Our seasons, so far, have been favorable, and our crops are good, par- 
ticularly the cotton. We want rain at this time, but are not suffering. 
In writing I make no apology to friends. They must decipher my scrawl 
as they can. 

I can only add that my best wishes attend you and every branch of 
your family, and believe me to be your friend and obedient servant, 

Peter Crawford. 

cxl. — daniel chandler* to gen. blackshear. 

Washington, October 10, 1881. 
Dear Sir : — I have been induced to become a candidate for the office 
of Solicitor of this circuit, and, yielding to the advice of my friends, I take 
this opportunity, if it be consistent with your views and feelings, to solicit 
any assistance that you may feel disposed to render me in my election. 

Your obedient servant, 
Daniel Chandler. 



* Mr. Chandler -was elected Solicitor-General of the Northern circuit, in Novem- 
ber, 1831. In 1SS5, he removed to the city of Mobile, Alabama, where he now 
resides, — one of the purest men living. He was a classmate of James H. Black- 
shear, son of the general. 



MILITAEY ROLLS. 



TROOPS IN SERVICE UNDER THE COMMAND OF BRIGADIER-GENERAL 

BLACKSHEAR, IN THE WAR ON THE FRONTIER AND 

SEA-COAST OF GEORGIA,— 1813, 1814, AND 1815. 

Muster-roll of a detachment of Georgia cavalry (mounted riflemen) 
under my command, stationed at Fort Mitchell, Hartford, and on an 
Indian scout from 9th November to 22d Novembei', 1814. 

OFFICERS. 

Lieutenant-Colonel, Allen Tooke, 
Captain, Richard H. Thomas, 
1st Lieutenant, James L. Perry, 
2d Lieutenant, Furney F. Gatlin, 
Comet, Thomas Sutton, 
1st Sergeant, Thomas J. Johnson, 
2d Sergeant, Joseph B. Colson, 
3d Sergeant, Hardy Gatlin, 
4th Sergeant, Jacob Watson, 
1st Corporal, James W. Shine. 
2d Corporal, John Jones, 
3d Corporal, B. G. Thomas, 
4th Corporal, Charles Carden. 



PRIVATES. 



1 Adams, Isham 

2 Adams, Dennis 

3 Barker, Bartlett 

4 Barker, Elijah 

5 Bird, John 

6 Brown, Bartlett 

7 Bush, John 

8 Bryan, Moses 

9 Brown, John 

10 Bryan, William 

11 Beard, Mathias H. 

12 Bradshaw, John 

13 Carden, Thomas 

14 Crawford, James 



15 Cole, Noah 

16 Cummings, David 

17 Daniel, Robert 

18 Donaldson, William 

19 Deese, Jordan 

20 Everett, James A. 

21 Franklin, Moses 

22 Franklin, Solomon 

23 Folsom, Thomas 

24 Folsom, William 

25 Gilstrap, J. 

26 Gilstrap, Jeremiah 

27 Harris, Joshua 

28 Hollv, James 

133 



134 



MEMOIR OF GENERAL 



29 
80 
81 

32 
33 
34 
35 
36 
37 
38 
39 
40 
41 
42 
43 
44 
45 
46 
47 
48 
49 
50 
51 
52 
53 
54 
55 
56 
57 
58 
59 
60 
61 



Howell, Benjamin 
Hogan, Stephen 
Hart, Samuel 
Hogan, Light 
Home, Eli 
Hobson, Absalom 
Jared, Obadiah 
Johnson, Aaron 
Jean, John 
Ivey, James 
Kirkland, Samuel 
Lancaster, Washington 
Lyons, William 
Little, George 
Lancaster, Wright 
McCormick, Mathews 
McCormick, John 

Morgan, Elisha 
Mill, Spire 
Mayo, John 
Mayo, Charles 
Maj'o, William 
Moses, Henry 
Moses, Jesse 
McNair, Gilbert 
Newborn, Benjamin 
Norris, Francis J. 
Odom, Archibald H. 
Pullen, Zebah 
Powers, James 
Bamsey, William 
Bamsey, James 



62 Biney, James 

63 Beeves, Joel 

64 Bobinson, Nathaniel G. 

65 Bobinson, Archibald P. 

66 Bay, William 

67 Santerrlt, Henry 

68 Santerfit, Jesse 

69 Singleton, Bigers 

70 Tooke, Arthur 

71 Tooke, Sterling 

72 Taylor, Hugh 

73 Taylor, William 

74 Thompson, Bobert 

75 Tomlinson, James 

76 Turnley, John 

77 Vass, John M. 

78 Varner, Abram 

79 Watkius, Daniel 

80 Womble, Daniel 

81 Womble, Bobinson 

82 Wingate, Bichard 

83 Whigham, William 

84 Wynne, Bobert 

85 Williams, Hope H. 

86 Williams, James 

87 Wilkinson, Micajah IT. 

88 Warren, Hinckley 

89 Ward, William 

90 Watson, Seth 

91 Walker, George, Jr. 

92 Yarborough, Lewis 

93 Yarborough, Moses 

94 Yarborough, Uriah 



CAPTAIN PABMENTEB'S COMPANY. 



OFFICERS. 

Captain, William Parmenter, 
1st Lieutenant, Lawson McGhee, 
Ensign, Elzathan Burke, 
1st Corporal, Lewis Burnett, 
2d Corporal, Hodge Hicks, 
3d Corporal, Luke Farmer. 



PRIVATES. 



1 Alexander, James 

2 Braswell, William 

3 Braswell, Bichard 

4 Davis, John 

5 Davis, Beese 

6 Farmer, King 

7 Hunter, Hardy 

8 Littleheld, Nathaniel 



9 Littlefield, Harwell 

10 McKennan, Joseph 

11 Noland, John 

12 Troutman, Henry 

13 Wilson, George 

14 Williams, Drury 

15 Young, William 



DAVID BLACKSIIEAR. 



135 



CAPTAIN HARRIS'S COMPANY. 

OFFICERS. 

Captain, Thomas TV. Harris, 

1st Lieutenant, William Hemphill, 

2d Lieutenant, Samuel Passmore, 

1st Sergeant, Matthew Wood, 

2d Sergeant, Israel Gragg, 

3d Sergeant, Simon Bateman, 

4th Sergeant, Bird Dennard, 

1st Corporal, Daniel Paine, 

2d Corporal, Robert Rabb, 

3d Corporal, Lewis Hunt, 

4th Corporal, William Greene. 



1 

9 



Q 
O 

4 
5 

6 

7 
8 



Arnold, John 
Bennett, Randall 
Bishop, Abner 
Bozeman, Samuel 
Bennett, Edward 
Brown, James 
Burke, John 
Crumpton, David 
9 Counel, Thomas' 

10 Carter, Thomas 

11 Craig, John L. 

12 Dennard, Isaac 

13 Dixon, Jeremiah 

14 Dentiard, John 

15 Dennard, John J. 

16 Elliott, Thomas 

17 Epps, Edward 

18 Frederick, James 

19 Gray, John H. 

20 Gilder, Sinnett 

21 Grantham, Benjamin 
Hutchinson, James 
Harmony, Peter 
Harris, Henry 
Harris, James 
Hair, John 
Holly, Bricey 

28 Jemison, Robert 

29 Jemison, John 



22 
23 
24 
25 

26 

27 



PRIVATES. 




30 

31 


Jemison, Henry 
Johnson, Alexander 


32 


Lanier, John 


33 


Morgan, Edward 


34 


Mosely, Elias 


35 
36 
37 


Mosely, John 
Mosely, Josiah 
Milton, Clement 


38 


McLendon, James 


39 


Martin, William 


40 


Martin, John 


41 


Martin, Jonathan 


42 


Mathew, Henry 


43 


McKiuney, Robert 


44 


Parker, Aaron 


45 


Radford, Robert 


46 


Raley, John 


47 

48 


Raley, Josiah 
Smith, Richard 


49 


Smith, Frederick 


50 


Saxon, Benjamin 


51 


Smith, Powell 


52 


Vasser, Willis 


53 


Williams, Joseph 


54 


Wood, Martin 


55 


Wood, Lewis 


56 


Womack, John 


57 


Young, George 



I certify upon honor that the above muster-roll contains each man's 
name that served in the expedition out to the Indian Nation, agreeable to 
the muster-roll returned to me by Captain R. Thomas, Captain T. TV. 
Harris, and Captain William Parmenter, November 22, 1814. 

Allen Tooke, 

Lieutenant- Colonel commanding. 



136 



ME MO I II OF GENERAL 



CAPTAIN JOHN THOMAS'S COMPANY. 

Fort Mitchell, February 22, 1814. A muster-roll of Captain John 
Thomas's company, under the command of Major James Patton, ordered 
into service on the 22d December, 1813, and termiuated on the 19th 
February, 1814, both days inclusive, to guard the frontiers in the different 
counties and forts: — Twiggs county, Fort Twiggs, Fort Jackson; Pulaski 
county, Fort Mitchell, Fort Laurens; Telfair county, Fort Adams and 
Fort Mcintosh. 

OFFICERS. 

Captain, John Thomas, 

Lieutenant, James Gr. Haines, 

Ensign, Eli Collins, 

1st Sergeant, John Fenn, 

2d Sergeant, Sampson Culpepper, 

3d Sergeant, Daniel Lewis, 

4th Sergeant, Nathan Maddox, 

1st Corporal, John Dean, 

2d Corporal, Uriah Kinchen, 

3d Corporal, Allaway Roach, • 

4th Corporal, Simon Woodson. 



PRIVATES. 


1 William H. Paramorc, 


30 


2 B. McLendon, 


31 


3 Moses E. Bush, 


32 


4 Thomas Swearingen, 


33 


5 Alexander Varner, 


34 


Thomas Gilbert, 


35 


7 James Yarborough, 


36 


8 John Lawsnn, 


37 


9 John Martin, 


38 


10 Seth Ward, 


39 


11 Jesse Harris, 


40 


12 Thomas W. Benson. 


41 


13 Mills Ezell, 


42 


14 Jonathan Jones, 


43 


15 John Harrel, 


44 


16 J. Kingsley, 


45 


17 Abram Nipper, 


46 


18 James Cain, 


47 


19 Edwin Moye, 


48 


20 Herod Mills, 


49 


21 Gideon Bush, 


50 


22 Britton Sanford, 


51 


23 James Collins, 


52 


24 Thomas Newberry, 


53 


25 Thomas N. Singletery, 


54 


26 Benjamin Salter, 


55 


27 Joshua Cobb, 


56 


28 James Johnson, 


57 


29 John Garrard, 


58 



Abram Bush, 
Levin Gilstrap, 
Dawson Webb, 
E. Webb, 
Lemuel Pruett, 
Joseph Culpepper, 
John Sims, 
William Smith, 
Harris Hicks, 
Alexander Mars, 
George Morgan, 
Levi Elsley, 
Jeremiah Allman, 
John Truluck, 
John Harris, 
Alexander Shepherd, 
Sampson Dickson, 
James W. McCullers, 
Lemon Johnson, 
Edward Johnson, 
John Nelson, 
John Tharp, 
Martin Livingston, 
Benjamin Watkins, 
Abram Adams, 
James Bailey, 
Henry Bailey, 
James Simmons, 
Isaac Wade, 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 



137 



59 James Mayo, 

60 Jacob Kanahest, 

61 Archibald H. Odoin, 

62 James Caldwell, 

63 Samuel Miller, 

64 M. Lewis, 

65 Isaac Kirksey, 

66 Needham Bedingfield, 

67 Jesse Murphrey, 

68 William Barker, 

69 Josiah Stewart, 

70 Isaac Dennard, 

71 William Hemphill, 



72 William Griffin, 

73 William Ford, 

74 James Ward, 

75 Dennis Posey, 

76 William Studfield, 

77 Moses Kirkland, 

78 Reuben Wheeler, 

79 Prior Prewett, 

80 Jjunfis-Ckuk, 

81 A. Lassiter, 

82 J. A. Williams, 

83 William Lester, 

84 Lemuel Evans. 



I certify on honor that the above muster-roll exhibits a true state of 
the different detachments of militia for the purposes above mentioned. 

John Thomas, 

Captain. 

LIEUTENANT LOYETT B. SMITH'S COMPANY. 

Pay- Roll of the first detachment of militia ordered out on the frontier 
of Twiggs county, in pursuance of orders from Brig. Gen. Blackshear, 
dated August 7, 1813, for the protection of the inhabitants residing on 
the Ocmulgee, and to build Fort Jackson. 

OFFICERS. 

Brevet-Lieutenant, Lovett B. Smith, 
1st Sergeant, Solomon Simpson, 
2d Sergeant, Daniel Jordan, 
3d Sei'geant, Edward Lane, 
1st Corporal, Elijah Bryan, 
2d Corporal, Benjamin Mobley, 
3d Corporal, John Conner. 



PRIVATES. 



1 Thomas Smith, 

2 John Bateman, 

3 James Dunwoody, 

4 Simon Simpson, 

5 Lewis Daniel, 

6 Thomas Matthews, 

7 Thornton Perry, 

8 James Graham, 

9 Thomas Hunt, 

10 David Neeland, 

11 John Williams, 

12 Samuel Wells, 

13 Robert W. McKinney, 

14 William Coach, 

15 Benjamin Grantham, 

16 George Jemison, 

17 Holman Stephens, 



18 James Stephens, 

19 John Morgan, 

20 John Wolf, 

21 Joel Carter, 

22 Simon Bateman, 

23 George Opry, 

24 Uriah Simpson, 

25 David Bozeman, 
20 John Smith, 

27 James Vickars, 

28 Benjamin Johnson, 

29 Charles Sutton, 

30 Ephraim Hightower, 

31 Young Vickars, 

32 Ha r man Mock, 

33 Amos Haughton, 

34 Robert Underwood, 



138 



MEMOIR OF GENERAL 



35 Rowland Tate, 

36 James Garrett, 

37 John Upton, 

38 Thomas Underwood, 

39 John Hughlen, 

40 Eleazar Galloway, 



41 James Daniel, 

42 James L. Craig, 

43 Willis Ward, 

44 Charles Wolf, 

45 Lemuel Lanier. 



The end of service, September 14, 1813. I do certify upon honor that 
the service for the above pay-roll was performed under my command. 

EZEKIEL WlMBERLY, 

Lieutenant- Colonel. 

I do certify that the above service was performed by my order, Janu- 
ary 7, 1814. D. Blackshear, 

Brigadier- General. 



CARE OF THE FORTS. 

Muster-Roll of militia stationed at Forts Pike, Mitchell, Greene, and 
Laurens, agreeable to the returns of the subaltern officers ordered to take 
command at each of the described forts on the frontier of Pulaski county, 
for thirty-eight days, as will appear in the four detachments under the 
command of Captain Allen Tooke, commencing August 14, and termi- 
nating September 20, agreeable to Gen. David" Blackshear's orders of 
August 9, 1813. 

FIRST RELTEF. 

Captain, Allen Tooke, 
Ensign, Thomas Cole, 
Sergeant, Hazel Ilolley, 
Corporal, Joshua Lee, 
Private, Moses Bryan, 

" Abraham Yerthy, 

" Samuel Kirby, 

" John Miller, Sr., 



Private, John Miller, Jr., 
Willis Bryan, 
Lewis Thomas, 
William Kelly, 
Joseph Ragan, 
Isaac Phillips, 
Alexander Smith, 
Jordan Dykes. 



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SECOND RELIEF. 



Lieutenant, Daniel W. Shine, 
Ensign, Elisha Garbet, 
Corporal, Wilson Bass, 
Private, Bartlett Barker, 
John Jones, 
Absalom Hopson, 
William Burnam, 
Solomon Franklin, 



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Private, Henry Moses, 
George Walker, 
James Chitty, 
John Pierce, 
Ezekiel Taylor, 
William Johnson, 
John Disharoon, 
Jacob Taylor. 



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THIRD RELIEF. 



Lieutenant, John A. Williams, 

Sergeant, Murdoch McLeod, 

Corporal, Elias Brown, 

Private, Warren Hunt, 
" John Bryan, 
" David Smith, 
"■ Mitchell Tomberlin, 
" Thomas Hester, 



Private, William Cooper, 

Nathaniel Mattox, 
Irby Brown, 
John Patterson, 
Jacob White, 
Josias Ellis, 
William Purden, 
Joseph Graham. 



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DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 



139 



FOURTH RELIEF. 



Ensign, James Carden, 
Sergeant, Robert Hunt, 
Corporal, Nathaniel Mattox, 
Private, Edward Hester, 
" Daniel Smith, 
John Eogers, 
David Pipkin, 
John Dixon. 



i( 



Private, John Lee, Jr., 
Adam Billings, 
Samuel Stewart, 
Mark Wheeler, 
James Odom, 
William Ford, 
Martin Pipkin. 



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FIFTH RELIEF. 



Lieutenant, William Lester, 
Sergeant, John McCrea, 
Corporal, Jesse Pennington, 
Private, Charles Carden, 
Thomas Carden, 
Samuel Jones, Jr., 
Uriah Yarborough, 



u 



Private, Stephen Wiggins, 
John Grimstead, 
Archibald Robinson 
Thomas Hatton, 
Samuel Fowle, 
William Galsino-ton. 



SIXTH RELIEF. 



Lieutenant, Daniel W. Shine, 
Sergeant, David Dykes, 
Corporal, Drury May, 
Private, Henry Cooper, 
" William Miller, 
" Frederick Floyd, 
Andrew Burch, 
John Fowler, 






Private, John Turner, 

u John Tharp, 

" William Harrel, 

" Alexander Peacock, 

u George Tharp, 

" Alexander Varner, 

" Sanders W. Doyle. 



SEVENTH RELIEF. 



Lieutenant, John A. Williams, 
Sergeant, John B. Barker, 
Corporal, Kinchen Dawson, 
Private, Etheldred Howell, 
Drury Deas, 
Hugh Ingram, 
Jeremiah Gilstrap, 
Levin Gilstrap, 
George Little, 



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Private, Samuel Hart, 

" John Bush, 

" William Dennison, 

" William Hammack, 

" William Allen, 

" Joseph Colson, 

" Frederick Wolf, 

" Obadiah Garrett. 



EIGHTH RELIEF. 



Lieutenant, Daniel W. Shine, 
Sergeant, Richard Davis, 
Corporal, Bartlett Barker, 
Private, John Paine, 

Solomon Franklin, 
Samuel King, 
Joel Walker, 
William Taylor, 



Private, Jesse Moses, 
Henry Moses, 



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Reuben Rowling, 
James Holly, 
Bartlett C. Williams, 
Reddick Sipley, 
Robinson Womble, 
Daniel Womble. 



NINTH RELIEF. 



Ensign, James Carden, 
Sergeant, Barney Hart, 
Corporal, Henry Hart, 
Private, Henry Home, 



Private, Isaac Santerfit, 
" John Bush, 
" William Allen, 
" William Whigham, 



140 



MEMOIR OF GENERAL 



Private, John McCormick, 
" David Girtinan, 
" Jesse Powell, 
" Etheldred Howell, 



Private, Neill Shaw, 

" Benjamin Howell, 
" Mathias McCormick, 
. " John A. Tharp. 



TENTH RELIEF. 



Lieutenant, William Lester, 
Sergeant, Fort Alford, 
Corporal, Aaron Johnson, 
Private, John Shaw, 

" David Cummings, 
" Isaac Foreman, 
" Wright Hasler, 



Private, John W. Sutlive, 
Thomas Mitchell, 
Jacob Watson, 
Edward Lassiter, 
Samuel Bedingfield, 
Bitters Sintrleton, 
Elias Crutchfield. 



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ELEVENTH RELIEF. 



Lieutenant, Benjamin Newborn, 
Sergeant, William Folsom, 
Private, Thomas Folsom, 

George Folsom, 

Drury Reeves, 

Thomas Bagget, 

Dennis Adams, 

James Wilcox, 



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Private, John Rogers, 

" William Winburn, 
John Bowling, 
John Brown, 
William Hamilton, 
Jesse Jump, 
Lewis Bagget, 
John M. Vass. 



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TWELFTH RELIEF. 



Lieutenant, Edward Bryan, 
Sergeant, Bartlett Brown, 
Corporal, Meredith Mercer, 
Private, William Taylor, 
" Alfred Harget, 
Stephen Crabb, 
Thomas Everett, 



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Private, Stephen Mitchell, 
" Nicholas Bagget, 
Jesse Fenn, 
John Parish, 
Robert Sumerall, 
Daniel Crabb, 
Nelson Johnson. 






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THIRTEENTH RELIEF. 



Lieutenant, William Lester, 
Sergeant, Washington Lancaster, 
Corporal, David Brown, 
Private, Alexander Calder, 

" Thomas A. Hill, 

" Nathan Posey, 

" Elijah Wallace, 



Private, Jeremiah Kingston, 
" Arthur Tooke, 
" Elias Bullard, 

Benjamin Harvey, 
James T. Thomas, 
John Bird, 



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John Hagan. 



FOURTEENTH RELIEF. 



Lieutenant, Benjamin Newborn, 
Sergeant, Zachariah Davis, 
Corporal, Richard Story, 
— L- Private, Asa Harrell, 
" Levi Harrell, 
" Henry Evans, 
Isham Sheffield, 
Moses Harrell, 



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Private, Arthur Perkins, 
" Isaac Harrell, 
John Johnson, 
William Harrell, 
Ezekiel Johnskin, 
Jesse Kent, 
John Atkinson, 
Lawrence Parkinson. 



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DAVID BLACKSIIEAR. 141 

FIFTEENTH RELIEF. 

Lieutenant, William Lester, Private, William Warden, 
Sergeant, Solomon Bryan, " William Carson, 

Corporal, Joshua Harris, " Moses Sutton, 

Private, Thomas Mills, « William Gibbs, 

" Charles Daniel, " Henry Hogan. 

I hereby certify upon honor the above muster-roll to be a true return 
of all the men in service at the forts of Pulaski, as above stated. Sep- 
tember 20, 1813. 

Allen Tooke, 

Captain commanding. 



FRONTIER OF TWIGGS COUNTY. 

Pay-Roll of a detachment of militia ordered on the frontier of Twiggs 
county, for the protection of the inhabitants and for the erection of a fort 
called Telfair, by Brig. Gen. Blackshear, from the 9th August to 13th 
September, 1813. 

OFFICERS. 

Lieutenant, John Keener. 
1st Sergeant, Lewis Moore, 
2d Sergeant, William White, 
3d Sergeant, Nimrod Busby, 
4th Sergeant, John Hair, 
5th Sergeant, Henry Surnmerall, 
1st Corporal, Powell Smith, 
2d Corporal, James Howard, 
3d Corporal, Jeremiah Dunn, 
4th Corporal, James Jones. 

PRIVATES. 

1 Kinney Powell, 21 Michael Carlisle, 



£>> 



2 John Jones, 22 Frederick G. Herring 

3 Samuel Streetman, 23 James Randall, 

4 William Streetman, 24 Ezekiel Wall, 

5 James Hollingsworth, 25 Thomas Bird, 

6 James Smith, 26 John Hinson, 

7 Henry Conard, 27 Mark Pettis, 

8 Henry Troutman, 28 A. Pate, 

9 William Johnston, 29 John Hollingsworth, 

10 J. Mathews, 30 John Fullwood, 

11 William Stanford, 31 William Fullingame, 

12 William Griffin, 32 William Crawford, 

13 William Surnmerall, 33 Caleb Hinson, 

14 William Dunn, 34 Jonathan West, 

15 Reuben Anderson, 35 C. Leonard, 

16 Lewis Coppage, 36 John Wilson, 

17 John Adkins, 37 Stephen Bostick, 

18 John Lamb, 38 James Bailey, 

19 Elisha Tarver, 39 Henry Fortner, 

20 Joshua Sloan, 40 William Todd, 



142 



MEMOIR OF GENERAL 



41 William Solomon, 

42 John Dean, 
48 Thomas Hair, 

44 William Burke, 

45 Joshua Hawthorn, 

46 John Burke, 

47 Minton Dean, 

48 Hardy Bedingfield, 

49 Robert Bedingfield, 

50 Jethro Holland, 



51 Isaac Brown, 

52 Frederick Watson, 

53 John Frederick, 

54 Charles Stewart, 

55 Josiah Davis, 

50 Samuel Stanford, 

57 Clement Milton, 

58 Caleb McKinney, 

59 Robert Atkinson, 
00 Moses Hill. 



I do certify upon honor that the service for the above pay-roll was 
performed under my command. 

EZEKIEL WlMBERLY, 

Lieutenan t- Colonel. 



MILITARY ROAD TO St. MARY'S. 

Pay-Roll for a detachment of militia called into service by voluntary 
enlistment, under the order of his Excellency the Governor, for the pur- 
pose of cutting a road from the Big Bend of the Ocmulgee River to Camp 
Pinckney on the St. Mary's River, under the command of Brevet-Captain 
Elijah Blackshear for the above purpose, from June 1 to July 18, 1814. 

OFFICERS. 

Captain, Elijah Blackshear, 
Lieutenant, Joseph Bryan, 
Ensign, Josiah Cawthorn, 
Surveyor, George Linder, . 
1st Sergeant, Ashly Cawthorn, 
2d Sergeant, Thomas Wilcox, 
3d Sergeant, Bartlett Barker, 
4th Sergeant, Matthew Clements, 
1st Corporal, Exum Cahoon, 
2d Corporal, John W. Martin, 
3d Corporal, James Jemison, 
4th Corporal, Joel Walker. 



1 Anderson, John 

2 Adams, Isham 

3 Ashly, Thomas 

4 Armstrong, John 

5 Beattie, James 

6 Bush, Moses E. 

7 Beall, Thomas 

8 Benton, William 

9 Brown, John B. 

10 Bagget, Thomas 

11 Brown, Bartlett 

12 Bateman, John 

13 Cahoon, Vincent 

14 Clements, John 



PRIVATES. 



15 Creech, Noah 

10 Cobb, Thomas 

17 Dean, Williamson 

18 Darby, John 

19 Daniel, John 

20 Daniel, Sanders 

21 Darby, William 

22 Friday, Jacob 

23 Farmer, Andrew 

24 Folsom, Thomas 

25 Fullwood, Wilkins 
20 Faircloth, Richard 

27 Gilstrap, Levin 

28 Hargrave, William 



DAVID 



29 Hutto, Henry 
Hutto, John 
Hair, Raiford 
Harrell, Joseph 
Holmes, Silas 
Homerby, Reuben 
Hay, James 
Jordan, Williams 

37 Jordan, Isham 
Lester, Neel 
Moore, William 
McDaniel, Elijah 
Mourning, Drury 
Nelson, Eleazar 
Nelson, James 
Mills, Henry 
Martin, Allen 

46 McGill, Sampson 

47 Perry, Allen 

48 Petrie, John G. 

49 Register, James 

50 Register, John 

51 Roberts, William 



30 
31 
32 
33 
34 
35 
36 



38 
39 
40 
41 
42 
43 
44 
45 



{SHEAR 
52 


Rowland, Reuben 


53 


Rouse, James 


54 


Ramsey, Eli 


55 


Stringer, John 


56 


Staples, Jethro 


57 


Sanders, Coleman 


58 


Savage, Solomon 


59 


Smith, Richard 


60 


Swain, Josiah 


61 


Trammel, Daniel 


62 


Tucker, John 


63 


Tucker, Davis 


64 


Thigpen, Lewis 


65 


Taylor, Dartholomew 


66 


Taylor, John 


67 


Taylor, James 


68 


Ward, James 


69 


Wilson, Henry 


70 


Wiggins, Daniel 


71 


Ward, Willis 


72 


Willis, William 


73 


Williams, John 



143 



CAPTAIN KELLAM'S COMPANY. 

(Pay-Roll.) We, the subscribers, do hereby acknowledge to have 
received from Christopher B. Strong, Paymaster-General of the State of 
Georgia, the sums annexed to our names, respectively, the same being in 
full of our pay for services rendered at Forts Pike, Mitchell, Greene, and 
Laurens, under the command of Captain Gideon Kellam, agreeable to 
regular orders of 8th September, 1814. 



OFFICERS. 



Captain, Gideon Kellam, 
Lieutenant, Blakely Edina's 



&°> 



1st Ensign, Athal Pullen, 
2d Ensign, Charles Rush, 
3d Ensign, Lewis De Witt, 
4th Ensign, Ilosiah Davis, 
1st Sergeant, Willis Bryan, 
2d Sergeant, Thomas Gulp, 
3d Sergeant, Batts Newsom, 
4th Sergeant, Henry Eulgham, 
1st Corporal, Wright Ingram, 
2d Corporal, William Ford, 
3d Corporal, Jordan Dykes, 
4th Corporal, Holden Dean. 



1 John Osborn, 

2 John Sherrod, 



PRIVATES. 



3 John W. Mayo, 

4 Isham Hasan, 



144 



MEMOIR OF GENERAL 



5 Robert Warren, 

6 Abram Bush, 

7 Ethel Howell, ' 

8 Wright Howell, 

9 William Isler, 

10 Thomas Johnson, 

11 Hubberly Taylor, 

12 Elijah Barker, 

13 Wi'ley Brooks, 

14 John Yawn, 

15 Neill Long, 

16 Frederick Floyd, 

17 William Brown, 

18 Jesse Lee, 

19 Benjamin Harrison, 

20 Joseph Graham, 

21 David Dykes, 

22 John Holland, 

23 John Swinston, 

24 James Bush, 

25 Joshua Dykes, 

26 John Kelly, 

27 William Bryan, 

28 James Lee, 

29 Joshua Lee, 

30 Malkiah Kelly, 

31 John Miller, 

32 Jonathan Miller, 

33 Henry Dykes, 

34 James Pratt, 

35 David Smith, 

36 George Tharpe, 

37 Thomas Weeks, 

38 Benjamin Weeks, 

39 John Weeks, 

40 James Trippe, 

41 Joseph Hatch, 



42 William Phillips, 

43 Asa Bradley, 

44 Benjamin Stegall, 

45 John Brown, 

46 Wilson Bass, 

47 Council Fowler, 

48 John Turner, 

49 John Kelly, 

50 Robert Hodges, 

51 James Odom, 

52 Lewis Thomas, 

53 Henry Hagan, 

54 Elisha Calloway, 

55 Daniel Spann, 

56 William Grimstead, 

57 Wiley Williams, 

58 Hardy Bush, 

59 James Bedingfield, 

60 John Nelson, 

61 Edward Murchison, 

62 John Smith, 

63 John McClenan, 

64 Bailey McDaniel, 

65 Daniel McLendon, 

66 John Taylor, 

67 Thomas Coleman, 

68 Hardy Vickers, 

69 Nathaniel Sowell, 

70 Thomas Backet, 

71 John Harrell, 

72 Moses Harrell, 

73 Isaac Harrell, 

74 Isham Sheffield, 

75 William Pate, 

76 William Owen, 

77 Henry Jones. 



[The days served, and the sums of money to each name, have been 
omitted as unnecessary. — M.] 

CAPTAIN ALFORD'S COMPANY. 

Georgia, Pulaski County. — Muster-Roll of a detachment of militia 
stationed at Forts Peter, Mitchell, and Greene, under the command of 
Captain Fort Alford, agreeable to regular orders of 6th August, 1814. 



NO. I. 



Captain, Fort Alford, 
Ensign, Evans Thomas, 
Sergeant, Willis Bryan, 
Corporal, Jordan Dykes, 



Private, Edward Bryan, 
" Frederick Floyd, 
" Jesse Lee, 
" John Turner, 



DAVID BLACK3HEAR. 



145 



Private, Elias Dykes, 
" William Bryan, 
" Henry Uptigrove, 
" Jordan Bush, 
" Benjamin Harrison, 



Private, Benjamin McDonald, 
" Moses Temple, 
" John Miller, 
" Wilson Vass, 
" Henry Dykes. 



NO. II. 



Ensign, Martin Pipkin, 
Sergeant, Barnabas Pipkin, 
Corporal, Arthur Alberson, 
Private, Moses Giddens, 
" Nimrod Phillips, 
William Cooper, 
John Pool, 
John Chapman, 
Moses Kirkland, 



cc 



li 



Private, Odom Billins, 

William Pipkin, 
Elias Brown, 
Irby Brown, 
Robert Hart, 
Elisha Cain, 
Samuel Stewart, 
Amos Pipkin, 
Mitchell Tomberlin. 



it 

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CC 

CC 



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cc 



NO. III. 



Ensign, Charles Bush, 
Sergeant, Charles Edwards, 
Corporal, James Hays, 
Private, Francis T. Norris, 
" Arthur Jones, 
" John Nelson, 



Private, David Duhart, 
Elijah Hunter, 
Roland Dean, 
William Hagan, 
Daniel Watkins, 
Bartlett McDaniel. 



cc 
cc 



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EXPLORATION CAVALRY. 

Georgia, Pulaski County. — Muster-Roll of Captain Richard H. 
Thomas's company of cavalry ordered to explore the country between the 
Ocmulgee River opposite Hartford and Flint River, in conformity to Gen. 
David Blackshear's order, dated 19th September, 1814. 



Captain, Richard H. Thomas, 


Private 


, John Mayo, 


Sergeant, Jacob Watson, 


(C 


Absalom Hopson, 


Corporal, James W. Shine, 


it 


John Bradshaw, 


Private, James Everett, 


cc 


Joseph B. Coalson, 


" Thomas Golightly, 


cc 


Lewis Rhodes, 


" Daniel Rhodes, 


cc 


James Rainey, 


" John Rhodes, 


cc 


William Ramsey, 


" Daniel Womble, 


cc 


William Lyon, 


" Wiley Barron, 


cc 


Hugh Taylor, 


" Daniel Appling, 


cc 


William Taylor, 


" Joel Reeves, 


cc 


John Bird, 


" John Jones, 


cc 


Hardy Gatlin. 



CAPTAIN LANE'S COMPANY. 

Muster-Roll of a volunteer company of light-infantry under the com 
mand of Captain Henry Lane, in the service of the State of Georgia, 
commanded by Col. Thomas Coleman, Commandant, from the 10th No- 
vember, when last mustered, to 17th November, 1813. 

10 



146 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

OFFICERS. 

Captain, Henry Lane, 
Ensign, Thomas Atkinson, 
1st Sergeant, John Hollis, 
2d Sergeant, John Middleton, 
3d Sergeant, Leroy McCay, 
4th Sergeant, Jonathan Walker, 
1st Corporal, Wiley Heflin, 
2d Corporal, Emanuel Smith, 
3d Corporal, James Studard, 
4th Corporal, Hiram Phillips. 

PRIVATES. 

1 Thomas Allnian, 22 Samuel Lane, 

2 Jesse Brantley, 23 Andrew Matthews, 

3 Isaac Bankston, 24 Lahan Mobley, 

4 John Bridges, 25 Elijah Myers, 

5 Washington Beard, 26 William Myers, 

6 Jeremiah Burges, 27 Parke Middleton, 

7 John Bassett, 28 Eli Nance, 

8 James Childers, 29 Hawkins Phillips, 

9 John Cobb, 30 James Phillips, 

10 Peter Kimball, 31 William Ruff, 

11 Charles Duke, 32 Alexander Rather, 

12 Joshua Dodson, 33 Joseph Ray, 

13 Martin Gentry, 84 Robert Ray, 

14 Comer Gentry, 35 William Raines, 

15 William Griffith, 36 David Sparks, 

16 Joseph Hackney, 37 Abel Sparks, 

17 Green Henderson, 38 William Thompson, 

18 John Y. Horston, 39 Hugh Thompson, 

19 Seaborn Jones, 40 Wiley Thomas, 

20 R. Q. Lane, 41 John Townsend, 

21 Archibald Lane, 42 Sampson Wilder. 

I do certify on honor that the within muster-roll exhibits a true 
statement of the company under my command. 

Henry Lane, 

Captain. 
Thomas Coleman, 

Commanding Detachment. 



CAPTAIN CROCKETT'S COMPANY. 

Muster-Roil of a company of Georgia militia under the command of 
Captain Elias Crockett, in the service of this State, commanded by Col. 
Thomas Coleman, Commandant, from 10th November, when last mustered, 
to 16th November, 1813. 

officers. 

Captain, Elias Crockett, 
Lieutenant, Francis Foster, 
1st Sergeant, Robert T. Sessions, 
2d Sergeant, Welden Jones, 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 



147 



3d Sergeant, William Bird, 
4th Sergeant, Washington Street, 
1st Corporal, William Sharp, 
2d Corporal, Samuel McLendon, 
3d Corporal, Davis Fitzpatrick, 
4th Corporal, Roland Jackson. 



PRIVATES. 



1 Britton, Burwell 

2 Burgess, Joel 

3 Berry, Wilson 

4 Bryan, James 

5 Brinkley, William 

6 Clower, Richard 

7 Claiborne, William 

8 Claiborne, John 

9 Collins, Silas 

10 Davis, Benjamin 

11 Duke, William 

12 Elliott, Robert 

13 Edwards, Miles 

14 Fitzpatrick, Hamner 

15 Gilmore, John 

16 Heath, William 

17 Jones, Richard 

18 Johnson, William 

19 Jones, John J. 

20 Jones, Hustin 



21 Jones, Josiah 

22 Jordan, Charles 

23 Kendrick, William 

24 Kennedy, James 

25 Merritt, Henry 

26 Patillo, James 

27 Robertson, Henry 

28 Ravins, Spieer 

29 Stroud, Ethan 

30 Telpleman, Zephaniah 

31 Truett, Purnell 

32 Wood, Daniel 

33 Whaley, Ebenezer 

34 Walker, John G. 

35 Watts, Littleberry 

36 Wyatt, John 

37 Warren, Jesse 

38 Watts, Thomas 

39 Williams Allen 

40 Zachary, Clementine 



SPIES IN SERVICE. 

Names of spies employed by Major Patton at the several forts on the 
Indian frontier, certified February 22, 1814. 



Mitchell— William Ford, 8. 

James Ward, 
^- James Clark, 9. 

Archibald Lester. 
Early — Littleberry Champion, 10. 

Seth Williams, 

Benjamin Wharton, 11. 

Ezekiel Dunagan. 
Pinckney — Daniel Watley, 12. 

Hillory Pratt. 

4. Seven Stands — Gabriel Colley, 13. 

Bailey Gwinn. 

5. Newnan — Joh* A. Piles, 14. 

John Bean. 

6. Navahope — Moses Trimble, 15. 

Willoughby Hammack. 

7. Defiance — Richard Bridges, 16. 

Dennis McSwain. 



•> 



:; 



High Shoals — Welden Earby, 

Joseph Naull. 
Smith — William Smith, 

William Mathews. 
Floyd— Bartlett Walker, 

Isham Scurlock. 
Daniel — Benjamin Reynolds, 

David Gillespie. 
Harrison — George Reid, 

Joseph Little. 
Washington — William Woffbrd, 

Michael Pilgram. 
Madison — James Hollingsworth, 

Peter Brown. 
Telfair— William Griffin, 

Robert Johnson. 
Twiggs — William Hemphill, 

Isaac Dennard. 



148 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

17. Jackson — William Davidson, 20. Mcintosh — Moses Kirkland, 

William Burke. Reuben Wheeler, 

18. Laurens — John Williams, Pryor Bennett. 

William Lester. 21. Perry — Louis Hall, 

19. Adams — Davis Boggs, James Kemp. 

William Studshill. 22. Ckauncy — Durham Hancock, 

William Hancock. 



KILLED AND WOUNDED. 

I have the honor to report the following list of the killed and wounded 
in the action of the morning of 27th January, 1814. 

SECOND REGIMENT OF INFANTRY. 
Colonel Daniel Newnan, wounded dangerously. 

i. — captain thomas's artillery. 

1 Private Patrick Ward, killed. 

2 " Alexander D. McFarland, killed. 

3 " Joseph Gillespie, wounded mortally. 

4 " Archibald Dent, wounded severely. 

5 " Thomas Napier, wounded severely. 

6 " Fielding Rucker, wounded severely. 

7 " E. Lester, wounded severely. 

8 " Eli Mash, wounded dangerously. 

9 " William Calbraith, wounded severely. 

10 " Colston Copeland, wounded severely. 

11 " Philip Logan, wounded slightly. 

12 " George Hammond, wounded slightly. 

13 Sergeant Lewis II. Kenan, wounded slightly. 

II. — HAMILTON TROOP OF CAVALRY. 

1 Adjutant Abercrombie, wounded severely. 

2 Private Thomas Blakely, wounded slightly. 

III. — CAPTAIN BUTTS'S COMPANY. 

1 Captain Butts, wounded mortally. 

2 Private Thomas Carroll, wounded dangerously. 

3 H Thomas Higginbotham, wounded severely. 

4 " Jesse Loyal, wounded slightly. 

5 " John Fry, wounded slightly. 

IV.— CAPTAIN BUTLER'S COMPANY. 

1 Private James Campbell, wounded severely. 

V. — CAPTAIN BROWNING'S COMPANY. 

1 Captain Browning, wounded slightly. 

2 Sergeant Joshua Mercer, wounded dangerously. 

3 Private John Bell, wounded severely. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 149 



4 Private Timothy Hunt, wounded severely. 

5 " Vincent Watts, wounded severely. 

6 " Isharn Hobbs, wounded severely. 

7 " Samuel Daniel, wounded slightly. 

8 " Elisha Williams, wounded slightly. 

9 " John Johnston, wounded slightly. 

VI. — CAPTAIN HAY'S COMPANY. 

1 Private Joseph Killen, killed. 

2 " Joseph Maddox, wounded dangerously. 

3 " William Hodges, wounded dangerously. 

4 " Josiah Morgan, wounded dangerously. 

5 " Simon Duke, wounded severely. 

6 " Thomas Elliott, wounded severely. 

7 " Alexander Horton, wounded slightly. 

8 " John B. Smith, wounded slightly. 

vii. — captain owen's company. 

1 Private William Dillon, killed. 

2 Sergeant Micajah Bennett, wounded severely. 

3 Private John Greene, wounded severely. 

4 u John Hawkins, wounded severely. 

5 " James Bentley, wounded severely. 

6 " John C. Hall, wounded severely. 

7 " Raleigh Hopper, wounded severely. 

8 " John Huddleston, wounded severely. 

9 " Brice Edson, wounded severely. 

10 " John Simmons, wounded severely. 

11 Corporal Leroy Williams, wounded severely. 

12 Private John Streetman, wounded slightly. 

13 " William G. Smith, wounded slightly. 

14 " John Singleton, wounded slightly. 

15 " Allen Pryor, wounded slightly. 

VIII. — CAPTAIN KING'S COMPANY. 

1 Private Leonard R. Harris, killed. 

2 " John Burt, killed. 

3 " Eli Smith, killed. 

4 Captain King, wounded slightly. 

5 Private John M. Stewart, wounded dangerously. 

6 " Joel Knight, wounded severely. 

7 " Stephen Gatlin, wounded dangerously. 

8 " Allen Perry, wounded dangerously. 

9 " Benjamin Brown, wounded slightly. 

10 " William C. King, wounded slightly. 

11 " Price Bonheart, wounded slightly. 

12 " Henry Parish, wounded slightly. 

13 " Hardy Stone, wounded slightly. 

14 " James Riley, wounded slightly. 

15 " Major Irby, wounded slightly. 



150 MEMOIR OF GENERAL 

IX. CAPTAIN YAWN'S COMPANY. 

1 Private Daniel Malone, wounded severely. 

2 ' Henry Singleton, wounded severely. 

3 " David McDaniel, wounded slightly. 

4 " Hubbard Mitchell, wounded slightlv. 

X. — CAPTAIN WEATIIERSBY'S COMPANY. 

1 Private Obed Glassblow, wounded slightly. 

2 " Benjamin Beland, wounded slightly. 

XI. — CAPTAIN LEE'S COMPANY. 

1 Sergeant Littleberry Pickett, killed. 

2 Private John Thornton, killed. 

3 " Joseph Beard, wounded dangerously. 

XII. — CAPTAIN MYBICK'S COMPANY. 

1 Sergeant Walter T. Brockanan, killed. 

2 Corporal James Dick, wounded dangerously. 

3 Private Samuel Edmonson, wounded severely. 

4 " Thomas Watts, wounded severely. 

5 " Hazel W. Williams, wounded severely. 

6 " Frederick Colbert, wounded slightly. 

7 " John Stewart, wounded slightly. 

XIII. — CAPTAIN WARE'S COMPANY, (FIRST REGIMENT.) 

1 Lieutenant A. B. Strickland, wounded dangerously. 

2 Private Thomas Graham, wounded dangerously. 

3 " Dennis Hopkins, wounded severely. 

XIV. — CAPTAIN BROADNAX's COMPANY. 

1 Private John Whitehead, killed. 

2 " Jordan Taylor, wounded dangerously. 

3 " Joseph Nichols, wounded dangerously. 

4 " Joel Dixon, wounded severely. 

5 " Jeremiah Clark, wounded slightly. <r 
G " William Whitehead, wounded slightly. 

7 " William Fitch, wounded slightly. 

8 " William Mathis, wounded slightly. 

9 " Edward Cavender, wounded slightly. 

10 " James Green, wounded slightly. 

11 " John Brown, wounded slightly. 

XV. — CAPTAIN JOSEPH T. CUNNINGHAM'S COMPANY. 

1 Private Elliott Hodge, wounded severely. 

XVI. — CAPTAIN BARTON'S COMPANY. 

1 Private Charles Salmon, wouuded severely. 



DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 151 

XVII. — CAPTAIN CLEAVELAND'S COMPANY. 

1 Private Samuel Carpenter, wounded severely. 

XVIII. — CAPTAIN PARK'S COMPANY. 

1 Private Edward Jones, wounded dangerously. 

2 " Samuel Walker, wounded severely. 

3 " Elisha Swann, wounded slightly. 

XIX. — CAPTAIN SMITH'S COMPANY. 

1 Private Beuben Golsby, wounded severely. 

2 " Anderson Hicks, wounded severely. 

3 " Abner Jackson, wounded severely. 
John H. Greer, wounded slightly. 



K 



c 



XX. — CAPTAIN LITTLE'S COMPANY. 

1 Private David Lowe, wounded severely. 

2 " Bedford Cade, wounded slightly. 

XXI. — CAPTAIN HEATH'S COMPANY. 

1 Private Edmund Hays, wounded dangerously. 

2 " William Holbrook, wounded severely. 

3 " Aaron Tidd, wounded slightly. 

4 " Gubridge Jones, wounded slightly. 
Captain Adam Heath, wounded slightly. 



XXII. — CAPTAIN JOHN CUNNINGHAM'S COMPANY. 

1 Private William Bailey, killed. 

XXIII. — CAPTAIN ADAMS'S COMPANY, (RIFLE BATTALION.) 

1 Private David Blalock, killed. 

2 " John Cooper, killed. 

3 " David Anderson, killed. 

4 " Green Berry, killed. 

5 " William Blalock, killed. 

6 Captain Adams, wounded severely. 

7 Private Bobert B. Holt, wounded dangerously" 

8 " Elijah Mosely, wounded severely. 

9 " John Dennis, wounded severely. 

10 " Archibald Thompson, wounded severely. 

11 " Josiah Cook, wounded severely. 

12 " Bichard Branham, wounded severely. 

13 " William Bobertson, wounded severely. 

14 " William S. Harper, wounded severely. 

15 " William Dusk, wounded severely. 

16 " John M. Woolsey, wounded slightly. 



152 



DAVID BLACKSIIEAIi. 



XXIV. — CAPTAIN SANDRIDGE S COMPANY. 

1 Private William Bush, wounded severely. 

2 " B. Coffee, wounded severely. 

3 " D. Hooper, wounded severely. 

4 " C. Ritchie, wounded dangerously. 

5 " James Brown, wounded slightly. 

6 " Armstead Murphy, wounded slightly. 

7 " D. 0. Bell, wounded slightly. 

8 " B. Watkins, wounded slightly. 



XXV. — CAPTAIN FORD S COMPANY. 

1 Private Thomas Beattie, wounded slightly. 

xxvi. — captain Meriwether's company. 
1 Private Augus De Lapierre, wounded slightly. 



Total killed, 17. Total wounded, 132. 

Williamson, 

Hosp it a I- Surgeon. 

N.B. — One of the wounded since died; 5 of the friendly Indians 
killed, 15 wounded. 



NOTE BY THE AUTHOR. 

The action mentioned in the Report of the Hospital-Surgeon is 
known in the history of the war as the battle of Cau-le-be, in the 
Creek Nation, State of Alabama. Gen. Floyd commanded in per- 
son, though suffering from the wound he had received at Au-to-se, 
in a previous engagement with the Indians. From the serious 
character of this wound, Gov. Early was apprehensive that Gen. 
Floyd would be wholly disabled from active duty, which induced 
the Governor to tender the command to Gen. Blackshear, as may 
be seen by his letter dated January 4, 1814, — No. 19 of the docu- 
ments attached to the memoir. The reply of Gen. Blackshear, if 
he made any, was not found among his papers. The author is of 
opinion that he waived the subject, from a sympathizing delicacy, 
which proved to be the best course, as Gen. Floyd soon resumed 
field-operations and chastised the enemy with great vigor and suc- 
cess. The surgeon's report of the battle of Cau-le-be is here given 
as a memorial of honor. 

For the muster-rolls the author is indebted to the courtesy of 
James A. Greene, Esq., Surveyor-General, and Col. B. B. De Graf- 
fenreid, one of the Governor's secretaries. The latter had under 
his supervision the military papers of the Executive Department. 
The applications, averaging several letters a day, for evidence to 
establish claims for bounty-land, from the war of the Revolution to 
the late Mexican War, were sufficient to take up almost the whole 
time of one of the secretaries. Since the discontinuance of the 
adjutant-general's office, the muster-rolls and other papers con- 
nected with the military were left in the utmost disorder, — many 
of them not filed in the Executive Department, — and the search 
for them was attended with much trouble and uncertainty. In 
this state of things, Col. De Graffenreid commenced the work of a 
thorough examination, which occupied him nearly three months in 
the summer of 1856. In the basement, or cellars, of the State- 
House, he discovered some boxes full of old papers, which he over 

hauled ; and, fortunately, many documents, including some of the 

153 



154 DAVID BLACKSHEAR. 

much-inquired-for muster-rolls, were rescued from oblivion. Seve- 
ral of these rolls had been paid bj the State, and formed proper 
evidence for reimbursement by the General Government. The 
colonel very judiciously determined, with the assistance of Mr. 
Greene, the Surveyor-General, to copy them word for word in a 
book strongly bound, arranged by himself for the purpose, with a 
complete index, to facilitate the information he was called upon to 
give, officially, to soldiers who were applying for bounty-lands and 
pensions under the several acts of Congress. 

As this is a matter in which all are interested in a greater or 
less degree, it would no doubt be highly approved by the people 
of Georgia, as it would certainly be much to their convenience if 
the Legislature were to adopt the copy thus »made, and give it the 
validity of a public record after a commission of their own choosing 
had tested its accuracy. 



INDEX TO MEMOIR. 



Adams, Major-General, 417. 
Allen, Beverly, 379. 
Ancestors, account of, 355. 



B. 



Barnard, Timothy, 432, 446. 

Battle of Moore's Creek, 356. 

Beverage, fashion of, 400. 

Blount, Richard A., 378, 481. 

Bourke, Thomas, 459. 

Brothers, names of, 359. 

Bryan, Edward, (Cypress Creek,) 359. 

Bryan, Edward, (Ocmulgee,) 359. 

Bryan, Edward, (Florida,) 359. 

Bryan, John, (Revolution,) 358. 

Bryan, John, (Florida,) 359. 

Bryan, Blake, 359. 

Bryan, James, 359. 

Bryan, William, 359. 

Bryan, Joseph, 359. 

Bryan, Elijah, 359. 

Bryan, Thomas Jefferson, 359. 

Bryan, Blackshear, 359. 

Bulloch, William B., 396. 

Bush, John, 358. 

Bush, William L., 395. 



Calhoun, Secretary of War, 467. 
Calloway, Peter, 357, 395, 402. 
Capers, William, (Rev.,) 381 
Carter, Farish, 423. 
Candidates, introduction of, 469. 
Chandler, Daniel, 483. 
Children, names of, 397. 
Committee, Anti-Tariff, 402. 
Compact, reDort on, 382. 



Conner, Wilson, (Rev.,) 453. 
Cook, Maj. Philip, 423. 
Correspondence, military, 365. 
Correspondence, social, 391. 
Counsel, Judge Fort's case, 387. 
Crawford, Peter, 470, 482. 
Crawford, Joel, 467. 



D. 

Darien, defence of, 459. 
De Graffenreid, Baron, 355. 
Dews, Joseph, (Teacher,) 356. 
Dooly, John M., wit of, 401. 
Dunham, Daniel Otis, 426. 



E. 



Early, Governor, 415, 416, 417, 418, 419, 
426, 428, 429, 430, 431, 437, 442, 445, 
446, 448, 453, 456, 459. 

Elector, Presidential in 1801 and 1828, 
385. 

Elliott, John, 472. 

Ewing, John, 463. 

Execution, form of in 1802, 360. 



Fannin, Abram B., 396, 452. 

Fauche. Adjutant-General, 403. 

Floyd, Brig. Gen., 416, 456, 459, 460, 

461, 464. 
Forsyth, John, 383. 
Franks, Martin, killed by Tories, 357. 
Franklin, Bedney, 426. 
Freeman, Frederick, 418. 
Fort, conduct of Judge, 385. 

155 



156 



INDEX TO MEMOIR. 



G. 

Grape, culture of, 399. 
Gilmer, George R., 376. 



H. 

• 

Habersham, Richard W., 396. 
Hamilton, John, 361. 
Hamilton, Duke, 362. 
Hamilton, William, 362. 
v Hamilton, Everai'd, 362. 
Hamilton, James, 362. 
Hamilton, Thomas, 455. 
Hammond, Samuel, 411. 
Hardin, Mark, 424. 
Harris, Charles, 481. 
Hatch, Lemuel, 358. 
Hawkins, Benjamin, 426. 
Hayes, George, 362. 
Hines, Richard K., 376. 
Hodges, Robert, 359. 
Hopkins, Major F., 463. 



I. 

Indian chiefs, address to, 444. 
Indians, regiment of, 447. 
Irwin, Governor, 403. 
Islands, British seizing, 461. 



Jackson, Governor, 405. 
Jackson, Maj. Gen. Andrew, 438. 
Jones, James, 404, 405, 406, 407, 409. 
Jones, Seaborn, 476. 



K. 

King, Henry, 480. 
Koonce, Richard, 358. 



Lamar, Mirabeau B., 480. 

Lane, Levin, 358. 

Lawson, Maj. Roger, 428. 

Lawsuit, Ridley vs. Blackshear, 476. 

Legislature, service in, 380. 

Lottery, first land in Georgia, 362. 

Lumpkin, Governor, 376. 



M. 

Marshall, William P., 396. 
Massias, Capt. A. A., 458. 



McCall, Thomas, 398. 

McDonald, Alexander, 433. 

Mcintosh, Maj. Gen., 423, 426, 429, 431, f 

436, 440, 443, 445, 447, 450, 451. 
Mcintosh, John Houstoun, 465. 
Mitchell, Governor, 411, 413. 
Mobile, orders to march to, 441. 
Moore, Thomas, 386. 
Munroe, Neill, 483. 
Myers, Mordecai, 396. 



N. 



Navey, Forage-Master, 434. 
Newnan, Adjutant-General, 420, 428. 
New Berne, landing at, 355 
New Orleans, defence of, 441, 458. 



O. 



Oconee Navigation, report on, 375. 
Offices held : 

Justice of the Peace, 1796, 360. 

Major of Brigade, 1797, 403. 

Brigadier-General, 1812, 365. 
Orders, statement of, 365. 
Orders, departure from, 459. 



Park, Ezekiel, 421. 
Parkman, Samuel B., 396. 
Passport, 1733, form of, 355. 
Patton, Maj. James, 433. 
Peace, official news of, 463. 
Perry, James, 481. 
Pierce, Everett H., 376. 
Pinckney, Major-General, 460. 
Porter, Anthony, 396, 433, 454, 460. 
Powder, bad quality of, 450. 
Presidents, hospitality to, 358. 
Provisions, sale of overplus, 399. 



R. 

Rabun, Governor, 467. 
Raines, Robert, 362. 
Raines, Lucien H., 362. 
Read, James Bond, 396. 
Removal to Georgia, 358. 
Resignation of office, 383. 
Reynolds, Christopher, 358. 
Robertson, William, 381. 
Rowland, John T., 377. 



INDEX TO MEMOIR. 



157 



Rules, governed by, 400. 
Rutherford, Colonel, 405. 



s. 



Sawyer, John, 455. 

Screven, James P., 396. 

Schooling, time of, 356. 

Shellman, John, 396. 

Shine, Daniel, 358. 

Shine, John, 395. 

Shine, James, 358. 

Slaves, enticed by British, 455. 

Son, letters to at college, 468, 471, 474. 

Sports, fishing by dignitaries, 400. 

Stephens, John, 396. 

Stores, loss of public, 434. 

Strain, William W., 421. 

Strong, Christopher B., 480. 

Surveyor, acts on the frontier, 358. 



T. 



Tattnall, Edward F., 469. 
Telfair, Alexander, 396. 
Tennille, William A., 359, 389. 



Thanks, vote of public, 374. 
Tories, brother James killed by, 357. 
Trent, settlement on river, 355. 
Thomas, Captain R. H., 421, 430, 433. 
Tooke, Col. Allen, 420, 428. 
Torrance, William H., 483. 
Troup, George M., 384. 



Vote by States for President, 478. 
Vote of thanks by Legislature, 374. 



W. 

Waddel, Moses, (Rev.,) 474, 475. 
War, services in, 365. 
War, termination of, 464. 
Wilde, Richard H., 474, 477, 479. 
Wimberly, Col. Ezekiel, 414. 
Winchester, Brigadier-General, 439. 
Wine, manufacture of, 398. 



Yazoo fraud denounced, 363. 



THE END. 



